Hands Go Up: A Letter of Self-Love

At the end of mental health awareness week, a week ironically where I've been very stressed and sad and unsure and self-hating, I want to share the opening verse of "Hands Go Up" with you. This verse was written as a letter to myself, as a reminder to love myself a little more - because when I love myself, I notice that others love me a little more too. In a world that often tells us to put others first and prioritize their needs above our own, it's easy to forget the importance of self-love. We are constantly bombarded with messages that tell us we're not good enough, not pretty enough, not successful enough. These messages can take a toll on our mental health and overall well-being. But what if we started to prioritize ourselves? What if we started to love ourselves unconditionally, flaws and all? What if we recognized that our worth is not determined by external validation, but by our own self-acceptance and self-love? When we love ourselves, we become more confident and secure in who we are. We radiate positivity and attract positive energy from others. We become more resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks. Self-love is not selfish; it is necessary for our own happiness and fulfillment. So, let's make a commitment to love ourselves a little more each day. Let's practice self-care and self-compassion. Let's celebrate our strengths and embrace our imperfections. Let's surround ourselves with people who uplift and support us. Let's prioritize our mental health and well-being. Remember, you are deserving of love and happiness. You are enough just as you are. So, let your hands go up in celebration of yourself. Love yourself a little more, and watch as others love you a little more too.