LEARNING TO LOVE

Tips for Loving Yourself

"I am the greatest." We may have laughed when we heard Muhammed Ali tell the world what he thought of himself, and with such conviction. But we knew he believed in himself. And we each need to know that "I am the greatest." Learning to love ourselves is a process. There are affirmations and behavior to reinforce this, which will ultimately result in loving ourselves. When we can truly love ourselves, then we will be free to love others.

The Goal of Love

We are all like flowers waiting to bloom, to grow and to open up to the world. Love is considered to highest ultimate goal. Everyone wants happiness, fulfillment and a feeling of healthy belonging. We all have the right to be loved. We deserve it. But how can one achieve this? Will love just come along? The path you take will determine your destination.

How Can I Love Myself?

Okay. I want to believe in myself. I want to feel that "I am the greatest." I want to accept myself, but how can I really be "the greatest"? Awareness is the first step to achieving harmony and acceptance. You might want to ask yourself the following questions. Note your strengths and weaknesses.

I know what my needs are and how to meet them.
I can freely express my feelings.
I enjoy my body and take care through nutrition and exercise.
I engage in meaningful pursuits.
I recognize my inner values.
I am creating and enjoying close intimate relationships.

I respond to challenges as opportunities for growth, strength and maturity.

I am creating the life I want.
I trust my own persona resources.
I experience myself as a wonderful person.
I am creating situations that help me realize my persona worth.
I believe there is abundance in life for me.

Continue this process of discovery by honestly asking yourself: "What do I need to work on?" "How are my communication skills?" "Am I pleased with my value system?" "Can I gently accept myself, as I am now, and work on who I want to be?"

The Unique You

Make a list of all the ways in which you are unique and special. List all of your positive qualities and know that you can live up to your potential. Through knowing yourself, who you are and how you shine, you will learn to love yourself. Discovery is the beginning. You can create your life. You can refine the self and you can love yourself. There's only one you, and you are unique!