The Perfect Valentine's Day Gift: Self-Reflection

Roses are red, violets are blue, love is a good thing, but the ability to self-reflect is even better. Self-reflection is considered as the knack to assess, perceive and comprehend our own emotional, behavioral, and cognitive habits. Unfortunately, not many people take the time to slow down and reflect on who they have become, the mistakes that shape them, or how they can do things better. As an advocate and firm believer of love, I do not think it is possible to genuinely love others or even yourself if you do not take the time to self-reflect and understand what you are looking for in a partner or relationship.

Practicing self-reflection can help us clear our minds and see patterns that might not be obvious. Too many people are always excessively focused on material things such as the gifts, fancy dinner, travel, and pleasure that comes with falling in love that they forget to self-reflect and understand their patterns. I watched the show Tinder Swindler on Netflix and realized how all the victims had one thing in common – failure to self-reflect. Instead, they were all too consumed by what was right in front of them.

Here are five ways to start self-reflecting:

• Write a journal (daily or weekly).

• Talk out loud to yourself (Yes, it is okay!)

• Go for a walk (Walking can help clear your mind)

• Practice yoga or meditation (as needed to slow down our monkey mind)

• Deep breathing exercise (breath in the good air)

Struggling with your relationship and need someone to talk to? We are here to listen.

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