While I don’t profess to know all the answers, I do know that there’s no magical wand that suddenly makes you more self-loving. This workbook is really for beginners. I will make more workbooks that will go deeper, this one really covers the basics. Don’t get me wrong. Self-judgment isn’t always a bad thing. We need to be able to measure up our ability to achieve certain tasks at work, as well as understand our strengths and weakness to make smart choices. Not only that, but self-judgment can actually save our lives (e.g., deciding not to drive after judging that we’re too drunk) and it also prevents us from being assholes if we need to change our behavior. Stand in front of a mirror in your house and designate at least ten minutes to be alone and undisturbed with yourself. Then, simply look at yourself. Gaze into your eyes. What emotions and thoughts emerge?

Journaling Prompts for Self-Love – Silk + Sonder 60 Journaling Prompts for Self-Love – Silk + Sonder

Our inner critical voice is constantly telling us where we could do better and what we should have done differently. I’m sorry to read about all you’re going through; I encourage you to continue searching for the support you need. If you’re looking for a way to find specialist mental health support, Psychology Today has a great directory you can use to find therapists in your local area. Usually, the therapists provide a summary in their profile with their areas of expertise and types of issues they are used to working with. Force" is the key word there. It's hard to generate any emotion on demand, and that's the same for self-love.

Are There Any Drawbacks to Self-Love?

You believe it’s protecting you but in reality, it’s reinforcing feelings of guilt and shame and self-destructive behaviors.

Self Love Journal - Etsy UK

There areendlessways to practice self-care. I explore 39 different ideas in my self-care article, but to get you started, I recommend starting with your body. I love my journal. It's the first steps I needed to make into my self love journey. It's easy to understand and has you thinking hard about the things you may neglect within yourself. Thank you so much for this journal.It hurts to be the only one in your social circle trying to take responsibility for your life. It hurts to be rejected by your friends, family, or both because you’re taking a different path. I remember how difficult it was for me to change the way I perceived my imperfection. Every time someone pointed out a flaw of mine or criticized me in any way, I would feel depressed, angry, and defensive.