I knew that it was only a matter of time before I was approached with rants about the deemed “hopeless holiday” that is now upon us. And yes, I’m referring to Valentine’s Day. I recently spoke with an acquaintance and listened intently as she rambled on about being alone on February 14th. She stated that the overwhelming emphasis that is placed on this day leaves her in despair and somewhat despondent. I personally was taken aback. I asked her, “Do you love yourself?” She responded, “What does that have to do with anything?” I retorted, “EVERYTHING!”

Because when you love yourself, one day out of an entire year shouldn’t impact anyone in such a negative way…

I then suggested to her that she spend the day loving on herself, instead of looking for someone else to do it.  She sucked her teeth and asked why I seemed so excited as I, too, would be “alone.” I replied with great confidence, “Self-love is the greatest gift I could give myself on any day of the year!” If you are feeling like my friend, read on for affirmations that remind me why it’s important to love yourself!

If you want to SOAR in life, you must first learn to F.L.Y (First Love Yourself)! -Mark Sterling

Loving yourself isn’t vanity. It is sanity! -Andre Gide

Love yourself first, because that’s who you’ll be spending the rest of your life with! -Anonymous

To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance. -Oscar Wilde

You have to love yourself because no amount of love from others is sufficient to fill the yearning that your soul requires from you. -Dodinsky

So, if you find yourself alone on February 14th, still count it all joy! Spend this day loving yourself and doing what makes you happy! After all, your relationship with yourself sets the tone for every other relationship you have now and in the future. I charge you today to make every day…Valentine’s Day.

By Dr. Avis Foley | Co-Publisher, Purpose Weekly