In a society were the Eurocentric standard of beauty are stressed and impressed as the ideal, it can be hard to accept yourself. Many people who don’t look a certain way have been told that they are not enough. For years, colorism, racism and classism have defined what is “beauty,” and that definition has been skewed and flawed. Thankfully, many people are seeing their worth and value and rebelling against the status quo. If you have been on a self-love journey and are looking for more notes on how to love yourself, here are some tips that could help.

Wear What You Want

Many of us express ourselves through clothing, but many times, we are terrified of what people will think when they see us in a certain outfit. When you give yourself the freedom and permission to show up authentically, it is incredibly freeing and liberating. The pressures of having to conform to societal standards and norms and bending over backward can be draining.

Photo by Godisable Jacob
Photo Credit: Godisable Jacob

Go To Therapy

Not everyone believes in therapy, but as human being, we all have experiences that have shaped us, scarred us or left us puzzled. Whatever the reason, talking things out with a licensed therapist who is knowledgable and empathetic can do amazing thing for your sense of self-worth. A therapist can also give you some insight into the way you perceive yourself in the world.

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch
Photo Credit: Polina Tankilevitch

Validate Yourself

Seeking external validation can be risky, tricky and heart wrenching. Sometimes, when we perceive life or situations a certain way and share it with the people around us, they can view it differently, and sometimes, gaslight us or dismiss our premonitions. Nurturing the grit and confidence to validate your thoughts and emotions is a powerful feeling.

Photo by Ezekixl Akinnewu
Photo Credit: Ezekixl Akinnewu

Ditch Your Phone Often

Technology has become a major part of our lives, and sometimes it sucks our joy away. Viral moments, twerking videos and random shenanigans on social media can quickly become intoxicating and dizzing. Take a break from your screens and completely break away to do something you love. This can range from going out to eat, reading and meditating all day, going to the spa or taking time to just be without doing. you got this, for sure.

Photo by Idy Tanndy
Photo Credit: Idy Tanndy

Be Still

Meditation is a powerful, often overlooked exercise. Taking a chunk out of your day to reconnect with yourself by being still, calming your mind and listening to zen music in the background us very centering. In moments like this, we become empowered to see our value and the goodness that we bring to the world. This is also an excellent tool to use when you feel overwhelmed and agitated. It is by no means an easy process, but it is incredibly worth it.

Black woman meditating
Photo Credit: KoolShooters