The Art of Self-Love: My Liberation Notes.
For so long, I lived my life on the edge, consumed by worry and overthinking. Every aspect of my existence seemed to be a cause for concern — work, friendships, home life, love. I was always stressing over things not going my way, and the weight of these worries left me feeling perpetually on edge. But recently, I experienced a profound shift, an “aha” moment, that changed everything.
I used to believe that I was deeply invested in these concerns, that they were a reflection of my care and dedication. However, a few weeks of introspection and self-connection revealed a startling truth: I had been overthinking everything. The bonds I thought were unbreakable, the worries I believed were monumental, were all figments of my anxious mind. In reality, I didn’t care as much as I thought I did.
The turning point came when I allowed myself to simply breathe. To step back, connect with my inner self, and embrace moments of tranquility. I spent quality time with friends and family, focusing on nurturing these relationships and, more importantly, nurturing myself. It was liberating.
When I was at my lowest, leaning heavily on the support of loved ones, their words of encouragement often fell on deaf ears. My sisters would remind me of my worth, friends would extol my virtues, but their words felt hollow if my colleagues or the people I cared about didn’t echo those sentiments. If my boss didn’t acknowledge my hard work, I felt inadequate. If the person I loved didn’t see my value, I felt unworthy. I was entrapped in a cycle of seeking external validation.
The true breakthrough happened when I decided to confront myself. One day, I sat in front of a mirror and really looked at myself. It sounds simple, almost cliché, but it was transformative. I saw myself clearly for the first time. I realized that I am amazing — I am kind, beautiful, smart, and capable. I am leading an entire branding and communications unit, and people listen to what I have to say. I am valuable, and it doesn’t depend on anyone else’s opinion.
This realization was my liberation. I understood that I didn’t need to be bound by others’ perceptions or the uncontrollable aspects of life. If someone doesn’t see my value, it’s their loss, not mine. I am not a tree — I can move, I can change, I can grow. Even trees move, swaying with the wind, reaching for sunlight.
Now, I am excited for my journey. I am thrilled to love myself unconditionally. I look forward to spending time with me, to do things for me, without seeking validation from anyone else. Everything I want to do is no longer tied to others’ opinions but is driven by my own joy and fulfillment.
This newfound self-love is a feeling I never want to let go of. It’s a joy that permeates every aspect of my life. I want to love God, take care of my family, cherish my friends, excel in my work, and be the most authentic, loving version of myself — for me.
To anyone feeling lost or overwhelmed by life, I offer this advice: Just love yourself. Step back from the chaos, breathe, and realize that nothing is as serious as it seems. The people you’re obsessing over may not be as significant as you think. Often, we fall in love with the potential we see in others or crave affection so intensely that even the bare minimum feels monumental. But you deserve so much more — love yourself enough to give yourself that.
In the end, self-love is the greatest gift you can give yourself. It’s a journey worth taking, a feeling worth embracing. So, take a moment, look in the mirror, and see yourself for who you truly are: an amazing, valuable, and worthy person deserving of all the love and happiness in the world.
