Let's chat about ways to practice self love

This week, I thought it may be nice for us to chat a bit about self-love.

I know, I know, it's a corny concept. But, I also think it's an important topic!

I was talking to a student of mine the other day, and we were talking about how it can be difficult to talk positively about ourselves.

One thing I pointed out to them was that when we look at how we are reinforced by others, it actually makes sense why it can be so hard!

for example, when we talk negatively about ourselves, like "oh, I don't do anything. I'm so lazy. I'm unattractive. I'm worthless." usually, what happens is that others say to us, "no, no, that isn't true. you are so great."

On the other hand, when we talk positive about ourselves, for example, "I am so smart. I work hard. I'm beautiful." What can happen? others can say (to us, or behind our back), "let's not be too conceited. Come down a few notches. You're too full of yourself."

So what does that teach us? It teaches us that we shouldn't talk positively about ourselves! That it isn't ok to talk positively about ourselves.

At the same time, we are told that we need to love ourselves. How confusing!

So... how do we do this? Let's explore that...

One way that we can start is talking positively about ourselves- even if it is to ourselves.

What are some great qualities about you? We all have positive and negative qualities!

And while it can be easy to focus on the negatives- my challenge to you is to find 5 positives about you!

Maybe you are funny? or hard working? Or are able to focus on things that you enjoy? Or are able to learn things that others struggle with? Or are amazingly artistic?

With this in mind...

Let's jump into this week's therapist mama bear tip!