Self-pity feels justified when life feels unfair. I’d think, "Why does everything have to be so hard for me?" or "Why can’t I just catch a break?" These thoughts kept me in a victim mindset.

Between family obligations, social gatherings, and the unspoken pressure to "look happy," it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and drained. That’s why this year, you’re going to approach the holidays differently — with self-love at the center. Loving yourself this holiday season means setting boundaries, honoring your energy, and embracing your unique journey. Here’s how to do just that.

When you love yourself, you’re more likely to act with integrity, seek growth, and live a life aligned with your true values.

Self-love is essential for happiness, involving self-acceptance, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care. It is a journey that requires patience and helps improve relationships with oneself and others, emphasizing that true worth comes from within, not external validation.

Be honest with yourself for a moment. Do you truly love yourself? Or are you constantly battling self-doubt, chasing perfection, and seeking validation from others? If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many of us mistake self-criticism for self-improvement. But the truth is, loving yourself isn’t something that "just happens." It’s a conscious, ongoing practice.

At its core, self-love is an internal practice of accepting yourself fully—flaws, strengths, and all. It’s about acknowledging your worth, regardless of your achievements, appearance, or status. This type of love isn’t something you buy; it’s something you build.

The art of self-love is, therefore, a journey to becoming one’s own best friend.

7 Day Self Love challenge. Take small steps to becoming the best version of you.

Lao Tzu, the ancient Chinese philosopher and founder of Taoism, offers profound insights into self-love through his teachings in the "Tao Te Ching." His philosophy centers around the concepts of balance, harmony, and living in accordance with the Tao (the Way), which can be directly related to self-love in several ways

Top books for you to kick start on your Self Love Journey

Self-relationship is a fundamental aspect of maintaining good mental health. It involves how we perceive ourselves, how we treat ourselves, and how we feel about who we are. Cultivating a healthy relationship with oneself can have profound impacts on mental well-being.