Four big reasons why self-love isn't selfish

Self-love is the foundation of a healthy and fulfilling life. It involves recognising and accepting yourself for who you are, including your strengths, weaknesses, and unique qualities. Unfortunately, many people equate self-love with selfishness, believing that putting their own needs and desires first is wrong. However, the truth is that self-love isn't selfish. It’s actually essential for achieving overall happiness and success. Here are the four top reasons that self-love is far from selfish.

4 reasons self-love isn't selfish 

1.  It's not all about you 

The first and foremost reason that self-love isn’t selfish, is that it enables you to be your best self for others. When you prioritise your own needs and well-being, you're better equipped to take care of those around you. If you're constantly running on empty, neglecting your own needs and desires, you're likely to be irritable, short-tempered, and resentful, which can negatively impact your relationships with others. On the other hand, when you take care of yourself and prioritise your own happiness, you're more likely to be patient, kind, and compassionate towards others.

2.  It helps you set healthy boundaries 

Another reason why self-love isn't selfish is that it helps you set healthy boundaries. When you love yourself, you understand your own worth and know that you deserve to be treated with respect and kindness. This self-awareness enables you to set boundaries and say no to things that don't align with your values or goals. By setting boundaries, you're not only protecting your own well-being, but you're also respecting the boundaries of others, which can lead to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

3.  It cultivates positivity 

Self-love also helps you cultivate a positive relationship with yourself. When you love yourself, you're more likely to practice self-care, engage in activities that bring you joy, and pursue your passions and interests. This positive relationship with yourself can lead to increased self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-worth, which can positively impact all areas of your life, including your career, relationships, and overall well-being.

4. It allows you to be you 

Finally, self-love isn't selfish because it enables you to show up authentically in the world. When you love yourself, you're more likely to be true to yourself and express yourself authentically. This can lead to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships, as you attract people who appreciate and respect you for who you truly are and what you truly want and need.

Self-love isn't selfish, but rather, it's essential for living a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. By prioritising your own well-being, you're able to be your best self for others, set healthy boundaries, cultivate a positive relationship with yourself, and show up authentically in the world. So, go ahead and love yourself unapologetically, because it's for the greater good.

Coaching for self-love

The way to grow in self-love is by giving yourself the space and time to reconnect with yourself, explore what you really want, increase your self-compassion, and prioritise your self-care. If you’re looking to expand the love you feel for yourself and shed the guilt that creeps in, perhaps setting a goal around these things will help? Authenticity coaching can help through empathetic space-holding and feelings-based goal setting that gently supports and encourages you in your quest to better know and honour yourself and your needs.