Is self-love just another term for self-care? Well, not quite. Booking a spa day or taking a bubble bath do offer some temporary stress relief, and also feel like a nice thing to do for ourselves, especially when something 'bad' happens at work. As February unfolds, often celebrated as 'the month of love,' let me propose you an alternative by exploring the profound impact of self-love.
Is self-love selfish?
Not really, but you might have those thoughts. However, giving ourselves some love and compassion is crucial, especially at the workplace. Let me share with you a few scenarios to consider:
You've made a mistake
Received negative feedback from your manager
You didn't get a raise and were expecting one
That long-awaited promotion didn't come
In those moments, when the stress is high, the inner critic tends to become louder and even quite harsh. Do these sound familiar to you? If so, how do they make you feel? Sad? Frustrated? Defeated? You are not alone, I've navigated these situations too. Reflecting on these experiences, I've come to realise that they were not setbacks but opportunities for growth.
However, growth didn't happen overnight; it began with a conscious choice. Mindfulness can give us the space to make that choice, and also by connecting with the warmth of self-compassion, we can send us some needed kindness, love and care. I believe this is a crucial component of a healthy workplace narrative.
How can we send us love at the workplace?
Let me share three practices you can apply to help you connect with self-love at the workplace:
Mindful breathing:Â Take a few long, deep breaths during your workday. Inhaling deeply through the nose, and exhaling slowly through the mouth. These can help you ground yourself in the present moment, so you can make skilful choices.
Journaling:Â Set aside some time to journal about a workplace challenge. Reflect on how self-compassion might shift your perspective and empower your professional growth. You can also jot a few kind words towards yourself. Can't find the 'right' words? You can imagine these are for a good friend or a colleague instead.
Gratitude:Â Acknowledge achievements, both big and small. Express gratitude for the progress you've made in your career journey. If you find it challenging, perhaps start by appreciating whatever you can find in your surroundings, for example: having a comfy chair to sit on, or having a reliable computer that allows you to do your job properly, having nice colleagues to share your day with, or if you work from home, being grateful of having that possibility (perhaps while wearing your PJs).
Take a moment to appreciate your resilience, honour your professional growth, and celebrate the unique professional being that you are. Your love and affection are as deserved in the workplace as anywhere else.
Let's make February a month of self-love, self-compassion, and professional flourishing! Your journey towards self-love at work begins now!
Are you ready to navigate this transformative journey within the workplace? If you are seeking personalised guidance and support, consider booking a health coaching session with me. Together we can explore tailored strategies to strengthen your connection with self-love. Don't hesitate to reach out, if you have any doubts!