Little ways to find love within yourself

Sophomore Maab Karrar tells you the importance of self love.

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Did you know that you’re very special? Well, if not, I’m here to tell you that there is no one in this world like you. You deserve to be loved, not only by those around you, but by the most important person in your life - YOU. Practicing self love can be challenging to many of us, especially during tough times like these, but it is really important that we love ourselves. I know many of us are going through challenges and aren’t in the best state of mind but doing something nice for ourselves can maybe cheer us up a little bit.

So do yourself a favor, and have some time to yourself. Try practicing the following strategies to help you feel loved and happier.

1. Start each day by telling yourself something positive; it can be simple, just anything that can make you smile :)

2. Limit your time on social media. Social media can be really toxic over time. People portray themselves differently on social media than how they do in reality. Staying on social media for hours can lead you to believing that people’s lives are perfect (which isn’t true), and that can lead you to becoming depressed.

3. Stop the comparisons. There is no one on this planet like you, so you cannot fairly compare yourself to someone else. The only person you should compare yourself to is you. Watch yourself grow stronger and better.

4. Surround yourself with people who genuinely love and encourage you and end all toxic relationships.

5. Celebrate every single win no matter how big or small. Give yourself everything you deserve.

6. Do things that you enjoy. You may step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

7. Know that you are beautiful just the way you are. Embracing your beauty can help you boost your self-esteem.

8. Be mindful of what you think, feel and want. Live your life in ways that truly reflect this.

9. Find something to be grateful for every day, whether it’s big or small.

10. Know that everything happens for a reason and everything will pass by.

11. Learn to say no. Don’t let peer pressure push you into doing something that you wouldn’t want to do.

12. Use your time wisely. Set a calendar and maybe even a daily routine.

13. Forgive yourself. Put the past behind. Let go of past trauma and wounds. Get therapy if needed.

14. Set goals for yourself, but be realistic.

15. Have fun! Get out there and do the things that you love. Enjoy them, enjoy being you, and enjoy your incredible life.

Lastly, remember that you are not alone. Other people are suffering as well. I myself have suffered from a lack of self love. Society makes it so hard on us to love ourselves the way that

we are. There are always some types of standards that we have to exceed. Applying those tips into my everyday life has made everything so much easier for me. I have a whole different friend group now. I have also been prioritizing doing what I think is important to me. I stopped comparing myself to others, because everyone is just different. Even though my life has changed a lot, I think I’m much happier right now. I feel loved and proud of what I’m doing. I hope you find these tips useful and apply them to your lives as well.

~ Maab Karrar