Self-love is one of those things we hear about all the time, but if I’m honest, it used to feel like just another buzzword. As someone who’s been through a lot—from the highs of playing professional indoor football to the lows of facing kidney failure and eviction—I’ve learned that self-love isn’t just a feel-good concept. It’s a foundation for mental health and a better life.
For years, I thought hustling harder was the way to prove my worth. I’d say yes to everything, constantly trying to meet everyone else’s expectations. But deep down, I was drained. It wasn’t until I started prioritizing self-love that things began to change. And let me tell you, self-love isn’t selfish—it’s survival.
Here’s what I’ve learned about self-love and how it ties into mental health:
1. Setting Boundaries is an Act of Love
I used to think saying no made me a bad person. But the truth is, saying yes to everything often means saying no to yourself. Setting boundaries—whether it’s carving out time for rest or limiting toxic relationships—is one of the most loving things you can do for your mental health. Now, I protect my peace like it’s my most valuable possession.
2. Positive Self-Talk Changes Everything
If I’m being real, I’ve had some harsh inner dialogue over the years. When I started flipping the script—replacing “I’m not good enough” with “I’m doing my best”—my mindset shifted. Positive self-talk isn’t just fluff; it rewires your brain and helps you show up for yourself.
3. Investing in Yourself Yields Big Returns
Whether it’s therapy, exercise, or simply taking a break, investing in your well-being is a form of self-love. For me, it’s been about embracing my mental health journey, opening up about my struggles with Bipolar II, and showing others that it’s okay to seek help. These investments in myself have paid off in ways I never imagined.
4. Self-Love Inspires Others
When you show yourself love, you’re setting an example for everyone around you. As a father and husband, I’ve realized that my self-love spills over into my relationships. Taking care of myself helps me show up better for the people I care about most.
Self-love isn’t a one-time thing; it’s a practice. It’s about showing yourself compassion, even when life gets tough. Trust me, you’re worth it.
