Healthy Relationships and Loving Yourself

Valentine’s Day is today, and it’s time to show some extra love - to yourself and the people around you.

Showing Yourself Love

• Make yourself a care package: Collect things that make you happy. These could be snacks you like, teas, little notes to yourself. Pamper yourself today or keep the care package as a treat for yourself in the future when you’re feeling low.
• Carve out time for activities that you enjoy: Schedule time in your day for something special that you haven’t gotten to do in a while. Whether it’s journaling, spending time in nature, or simply doing deep breathing exercises, find what brings you joy and prioritize it.
• Spend time with your friends or family: Surround yourself with people who care about you this Valentine’s Day. Plan a fun Galentine’s, go to a campus event, or simply relax with people you enjoy being around.
• Learn to say “no”: This doesn’t have to happen only on Valentine’s Day – learn to say “no” to things when you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Recognizing your boundaries and saying “no” to things that don’t align with your well-being is a great way to promote your long-term well-being and avoid burn-out. Often, saying no to someone else means saying yes to yourself.
• Be forgiving to yourself: You are doing amazing! Focus on your accomplishments and the positive aspects of your life. Forgive yourself when mistakes are made and reflect on what you wish you could have done differently. Well-being won’t come from fixating on what you did, but rather what you can do differently in the future.
• Do something kind for someone else: Doing something for others can make you feel fulfilled and happy. Start with little acts of kindness – make someone a homemade card, tell someone why you appreciate them, or volunteer in your community.

Tips for Fostering Healthy Relationships

• Build trust: Keep promises, be reliable, and respect boundaries. Trust forms the foundation of any close relationship.
• Use open communication: Share thoughts, feelings, and experiences honestly. Listen actively and non-judgmentally to each other's perspectives.
• Listen: Practice empathetic and attentive listening. Create a safe space for everyone to share without interruptions.
• Spend time: Dedicate distraction-free time to each other. Engage in activities that foster connection and enjoyment.
• Be vulnerable: Share fears, insecurities, and dreams. Encourage authenticity and openness for a deeper connection.
• Share affection and appreciation: Show affection regularly through kind gestures and compliments. Be each other's support during challenging times.
• Resolve conflict: Address disagreements constructively with respect and empathy. Ensure everyone's voice is heard and considered.
• Seek out shared goals and values: Find common ground in aspirations and values. Shared values create unity and purpose in relationships.
• Grow as individuals: Support personal growth and interests. Celebrate achievements and encourage self-discovery for deeper connections.

Investing in healthy relationships and self-love will help you promote your happiness and well-being in the long-run. Do something special for yourself and others this Valentine’s Day, Tar Heels!