Implementing self-love is personal to me because this was a missing part of my life for years. In my household, self-care activities didn't exist. I have never seen my mother taking time out for herself away from the hustle and bustle. Everything was about how we can make sure we have food and a roof over our heads. When I moved to Atlanta, I started to get to know myself a little more and being more in tune with the things that make me happy. I began to understand the importance of implementing self-love. You have to show up for yourself internally outside of working, taking care of your home, relationships, etc. When you focus on doing the inner work, this will connect the dots to all other areas in your life. 

If you are unsure about ways you can implement self-love, here are a few:

Practice good self-care: 

Spoil yourself with the activities that make you feel whole. Treat yourself to a massage, dinner, or lunch date, rest your body, and celebrate your accomplishments even when no one else does. I finally had my first podcast interview, and my friend reminded me how I should be celebrating with a glass of wine or something that I love. Immediately I had to check myself and remind myself how I prayed for this, which is a goal I accomplished. Implementing self love is cheering for yourself like you cheer for others.

Set Boundaries:

 Setting boundaries allow you to establish your identity without making a negotiation to please others. This is an act of self-love because you put yourself first and do not feel bad for saying no. Sometimes we mistake saying no as a form of neglect, but in reality, if you neglect your own needs that's neglecting your self-love. Never stretch yourself too thin to please others. Always ask yourself does this feel right for me?

Build a strong community and let go of the negativity:

Self-love is protecting your space from people or things that may drain you and get in the way of your mental and emotional freedom. This goes for anyone relationships, friends, family, associates etc. Energy is contagious, and the wrong energy has the power to break you. When you hold on to things that weigh you down, you neglect your self-love. When your trying to love on yourself you need to be around people who love on themselves and people who isn't going to drain your energy. It would be best if you had a supportive, genuine community that will pour into you as much as you pour into them. 

Get rid of self-doubt understand your human:

We don't realize the power our thoughts have on our life. The way you think can shape who you are as a person and how you handle situations in the world. When you talk down on yourself and put yourself in a negative mindset, you place this energy on you that can hold you back from being confident, fearless, and happy. It's hard to show up for yourself if you're constantly finding negative things about yourself to dwell on. When you understand your flaws and don't make your flaws your main characteristic, you can analyze yourself and implement more self-love.

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Get to know yourself and reflect:

Alone time is essential; it helps you reflect on your emotions, analyze your thought and the things you want to improve. Spend time with yourself and get to know who you are. Even if your a social butterfly you still need time alone. Activities like journaling, yoga, listening to self-development podcasts provide you with those moments to be in tune with yourself. When I listen to certain podcasts, it allows me to reflect on my behaviors and things I want to work on, and it provides me with different perspectives that can be applied to my lifestyle. Don't be afraid to journal or to sit in silence and be vulnerable with your emotions. Get to know the good and bad while embracing the journey of falling in love with yourself.