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Self Love- Permission to Fake it While You Make it

Writer's picture: Jenny PeniJenny Peni


Pretending to love yourself can be a powerful step towards cultivating genuine self-love. It’s like planting a seed of self-compassion that, with nurturing and care, grows into a flourishing garden of authentic self-appreciation. This process is rooted in the concept of cognitive behavioral therapy, which emphasizes the impact of thoughts and behaviors on emotions. By deliberately practicing self-love, even in moments of self-doubt, you can rewire your brain and transform your internal dialogues.


When we begin the practice of pretending to love ourselves, we are essentially engaging in a form of cognitive restructuring. We consciously choose to replace self-criticism with self-affirmation, swapping negative inner monologues with positive, encouraging statements. This shift in thinking can lead to behavioral changes, as we start to treat ourselves with kindness and consideration. Over time, this practice can become more natural and integrated into everyday life.


As the process continues, the brain begins to adapt to this new way of thinking and behaving. The neural pathways associated with self-criticism weaken, while those linked to self-love and self-compassion become stronger. The result is a gradual transformation of self-perception. What started as a conscious effort to "fake it until you make it" evolves into an ingrained sense of genuine self-appreciation.


The act of pretending to love oneself often involves adopting self-care practices. This can include engaging in activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being, as well learning to set appropriate boundaries with ourselves and others. Whether it's setting aside time for relaxation, pursuing hobbies, or seeking professional help when needed, these behaviors signal a commitment to self-nurturing. Over time, these self-care practices reinforce the idea that we are deserving of care and attention, contributing to the development of true self-love.


Another crucial aspect of pretending to love oneself is the impact it has on relationships. When we project an image of self-love, we tend to attract positive interactions from those around us, and also set appropriate boundaries with ourselves and others. This can result in supportive, affirming relationships that further bolster our self-esteem. Consequently, we receive external validation that aligns with the self-love we are striving to cultivate internally.


It's important to note that the process of pretending to love oneself doesn't imply insincerity. Instead, it's a deliberate act of self-compassion, akin to comforting a friend in need. By offering oneself the same empathy and kindness one would extend to others, we begin to bridge the gap between pretense and reality. In doing so, they create a nurturing environment in which our feelings of self-worth and self-love can take root and flourish.


The practice of pretending to love oneself paves the way for greater self-awareness. By intentionally examining one's thoughts and behaviors, individuals develop a deeper understanding of their own needs and desires. This heightened self-awareness allows us to make more informed choices that align with our values and aspirations. Consequently, we become more attuned to what brings us joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose, reinforcing our self-love journey.


As we persist in the practice of pretending to love ourselves, the boundaries between pretense and reality begin to blur. What initially felt like an act gradually becomes an integral part of their identity. The positive feedback loop of self-affirmation and self-care reinforces this transformation, leading to a solid foundation of true self-love.


So, it's 100% OK and worthwile to begin a self love journey by faking it! Pretending to love oneself is a powerful catalyst for cultivating genuine self-love. It involves intentionally reshaping one's thoughts and behaviors, practicing self-compassion, engaging in self-care, and fostering positive relationships. Through this deliberate process, we lay the groundwork for a profound shift in self-perception and internal dialogue. What begins as a conscious effort evolves into an authentic expression of self-love, leading to greater self-awareness, fulfillment, and resilience. So, while the journey may start with "pretending," it ultimately paves the way for a deeply rooted sense of genuine self-appreciation and love.


Love, Jenny

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