You can't pour from an empty cup. If you have been putting others first in the past, it is time to learn to put yourself ahead of others. You need to learn to love yourself in order to love those who are important to you. It isn't selfish to put your needs before other's wants.
Self-love is important to maintain good mental health. When you are at your best, you are able to give more to others. So, in 2020, you resolve to put yourself first and love yourself more.
Learn To Say No
You don't have to be everything to everyone. You might think that the only way people will like you is if you have something to offer them. Maybe you want to be a rock for other people. While that is a kind thing for you to do, it can wear you down to the point where you are no good to anyone; even yourself.
To show love to yourself, you need to learn to say no to those obligations that take up too much of your mental energy. Don't be afraid to say no if you feel like you can not fulfill someone's request. You don't owe people an explanation. Simply saying, "No, I won't be able to help you with that" is enough. You'd be surprised how many people will understand. Don't be afraid to put yourself first.
Don't Let Your Brain Lie To You
We all have that inner critic that tells us lies about ourselves. This needs to be the year to silence that voice. It's lying to you anyway. You ARE beautiful. You ARE smart. You ARE likable. When these thoughts pop into your head, tell them to be quiet and then replace those thoughts with positive ones.
You are the only person in this world that can give yourself self-esteem so start talking to yourself like you are the prize that you really are. If you are finding it hard to silence those negative thoughts, start ignoring them. Pretend they are a random person on the street. You don't care about their opinion so stop caring about what that voice tells you.
Get Rid Of The Negative and Toxic People In Your Life
It might be hard to silence your inner critic but it is easier to silence those people who bring you down every day. If you have a toxic relationship with a family member or friend, this is the year to cut them loose or at least put them at arm's length.
When you eliminate toxic people in your life, you open up yourself to those who truly love you and want the best for you. While it might be hard to cut these people out of your life, you will feel better in the end. You don't need their negative energy preventing you from loving life the way you should.
Find Time To Enjoy What Brings You Happiness
Life is too short to spend time doing things that you don't enjoy. Of course, we all have obligations but it is also important to find time to enjoy the things that bring happiness to your heart. This year, find what brings you joy and make an effort to surround yourself with those things.
Find new and exciting activities. Introduce yourself to new experiences. Surround yourself with like-minded people. Find what brings you joy and let yourself experience it to its fullest potential.
Putting yourself and your happiness first isn't selfish. It is essential to your own mental health. You have to take care of your wants and needs in order to be as present as you can in the lives of others. In 2020, make sure you put your happiness first and love yourself more.
