As the Whitney Houston hit song points out, “Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all,” because, primarily, self-love is an all-important key to better mental health.
In celebration of World Mental Health Day this October 10, we explore loving one’s self as a powerful step toward a healthier emotional state, something digital superheroes need to stir up their volunteering efforts. Compassion fatigue is very real so we at TheOneHourProject (TOHP) take our self-love and mental health very seriously, together with our partners Safe Space Cares in Singapore and Circle of Hope in the Philippines.
How Do You Define Self-Love?
At its core, self-love—or self-compassion—means treating yourself with the same kindness, patience, and understanding as your best friend. It is an intentional way to choose yourself more, practice self-care, and honor your strengths and weaknesses. It is about showing up for yourself when you are struggling or when things are not going your way.
By following self-love practices, people can improve their emotional resilience and somehow create a compassionate safety net for family, friends, and others, especially those in need of such support, whether they are from your circle or beyond. We can’t be superheroes to others if we aren’t first, a hero to ourselves.
How to Practice Self-Love and Be a Hero to Yourself
When having compassion for oneself is easier said than done, here are four effective ways to help you practice the principle:
- Attend to your basic needs – As part of the daily grind, self-love may look different for individuals on any given day. Some days, you may crave the quiet comfort of a good book, snuggling up in a corner; other days, you seek the energy of a night out with your people. Some days, you may want to create in the kitchen and prepare your family meal hands-on; other days, you crave extra time to sleep, stay longer in bed because you feel exhausted. No matter what it is, remember to look out for yourself and intentionally indulge in what you want to do, guilt-free.
- Access Mental Health Help if Needed – There is no shame in seeking help if the feelings get overwhelming. In fact, one of the best things you can do for yourself is to seek professional help because we can’t be a safe space for others if we aren’t a safe space for ourselves. TOHP is honored to support Safe Space Cares in Singapore and Circle of Hope in the Philippines. These mental health support platforms offer accessible professional help with easy digital access and consults.
- Practice mindfulness and gratitude – Shifting your perspective and emotional state to positive requires focus in the present and appreciation of what’s on hand. Learn to honor your weaknesses as much as your strengths. When struggling, respond to yourself with kindness and understanding, recognizing that mistakes and imperfections are part of being human and that things could get better in time.
- Engage in activities that give you joy – Making time for your hobbies, favorite activities, and projects you care about. Prioritizing what brings you joy instead of simply devoting time to things on your “to-do list” signifies great compassion for yourself.
Helping Others Find Self-Compassion
By fostering self-compassion, you can enhance your overall mental health and emotional state. You cannot pour from an empty cup, as they say. And if you are looking for meaningful ways to spread compassion, consider joining TOHP and working with our partners, Safe Space Cares and Circle of Hope. These mental health platforms are always in need of corporate partners, donors and digital volunteers to help them keep doing their good work.
Let your self-compassion spill over to those who need it so they would not feel alone in their mental health journey. Sign up with TOHP today and let your greatest love shine through!
