Self-Love Isn’t Selfish: 7 Ways to Prioritize Yourself This Season
- Aimee Sims
- Jul 9
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 30
Have you ever felt guilty for needing space, rest, or just a moment to breathe? For saying no to plans that don’t feel aligned or for finally putting your phone on Do Not Disturb so you can just be? If you’ve been there...saaame. You’re not alone.
Many of us were taught that being a “good” person means putting everyone else first. That saying “yes” to others, even when it means saying “no” to ourselves.. It's just what love looks like. But here's the truth: self-love isn’t selfish. It’s essential. Prioritizing yourself doesn’t mean you love others less, it simply means you love yourself enough to show up whole.
This season...whether it's a busy summer full of events, a new school year, or a fresh chapter in your healing journey...let’s flip the script. Let’s talk about real, practical ways to pour into yourself without guilt. Because when you thrive, everything around you does too.
Here are 7 ways to prioritize yourself this season (and feel damn good about it)! 1. Schedule Yourself In
Think about how easily we block off time for everyone else...work meetings, doctor appointments, playdates, errands. But what about you?
This season, try treating your self-time like a non-negotiable. Schedule it into your calendar. Whether it’s 30 minutes with your journal and a coffee before the house wakes up, a weekly yoga class, or a no-phone bubble bath... make it official.
Why it matters: Nothing is more important than showing up for yourself! This teaches you that you're worthy of structure, intention and receiving all the beauty your heart desires, not just what's leftover at the end of the day.
2. Reclaim Your Morning AND Evening Ritual
You don’t need a two-hour miracle morning to feel grounded. But starting and ending your day with yourself can completely shift your energy.
Ask yourself: What would make me feel more like me before the world starts making demands?
Maybe it’s:
Playing music and stretching while your coffee brews
Speaking affirmations in the mirror * Believe my I thought this was so silly but wow it helps.
Putting on makeup just for you (not the Zoom meeting or Event)
Writing three things you’re grateful for or working on a journal prompt
Always taking the time to take care of your body... These results last so much longer than that moment. Skincare & Dental Hygiene routine is a must. I love using a facial steamer to clean my pores even deeper and make it an even more enjoyable experience.
Why it matters: Creating a moment that’s just yours Whether 10 minutes or 30;
sends a powerful message: I am worthy and I deserve my own presence.
3. Say “No” Without the Novel
Let’s get real: overexplaining your “no” is draining. You don’t owe a dissertation when you’re protecting your peace or something isn't aligning for you.
Try this: “Thanks for thinking of me, but I won’t be able to.” Or, “That doesn’t work for me right now.” Period.
No long story. No guilt.
Why it matters: Boundaries are not walls; they’re bridges to self-respect.
I learned this the hard way when it comes to family, friends and even making time for work and clients.
Saying “no” to what drains you is saying “yes”to make time for the incredible things that fuels you!
We can't be in all places at once, what's on your vision board when it comes to goals, morals, relationships etc. Will it fuel or drain you?
4. Check In With Your Body, Not Just Your To-Do List
Productivity is praised as the ultimate measure of success.
Burnout has serious consequences to constantly pushing yourself without pause. When you hit that point it becomes far more difficult to recover than if you had just simply prioritized rest and balance!
How often do we ask ourselves how we feel instead of what we’ve done?
This season, make it a habit to check in:
Do I need to rest or move?
Am I thirsty, hungry, overstimulated?
Where am I holding tension?
Give your body what she/he is asking for. Maybe it’s a walk. A nap. A stretch. Or simply a deep breath.
Why it matters: Your body is wise. Tuning in helps you prevent burnout and build trust with yourself again.
5. Romanticize the Small Stuff
Yes, seriously. Make your own life feel like a vibe.
Pour your coffee into your favorite mug. Light the candle on a Tuesday just because. Dress up to run errands if it makes you feel good. Listen to music that makes you feel alive while you clean the kitchen.
This isn’t about aesthetics for Instagram. It’s about choosing joy in the mundane every day.
Why it matters: You deserve to be the main character in your life. Small moments of beauty can bring big bursts of love back into your routine.
6. Stop Waiting for a Special Occasion
Want to take that trip? Book the solo date? Invest in that service, session, or photoshoot that’s been calling your name?
Stop waiting for permission or the “perfect” time. Self-love is the special occasion.
Book the session. Wear the dress. Celebrate yourself while you’re still becoming.
Why it matters: Putting yourself on hold doesn’t serve anyone. You’re worthy of beauty, joy, and celebration right now. Not someday.
7. Speak Kindly to Yourself—Out Loud
Your inner voice can be your loudest critic or your biggest cheerleader. Start catching the moments where your thoughts turn against you and interrupt them with truth. Would you ever talk like that to someone you love and care about, probably not.
Say it out loud (& proud):
“I’m proud of myself for showing up.”
“I am enough, even on my messy days.”
“I give myself grace. I’m still learning.”
Even if it feels silly, speaking love over yourself is extremely powerful.
We keep little mindful affirmations all over our home…gentle reminders to stay grounded, grateful, and full of love every single day.
Why it matters: Words create energy. The way you speak to yourself becomes the way you feel about yourself. Shift the narrative, one sentence at a time.
Final Thoughts: You Are Worth the Effort
Self-love isn’t a destination. It’s a daily choice, it's a practice that’s imperfect, but so worth it. It’s in the little moments when you choose yourself, advocate for yourself, and nurture the person you’re becoming.
This season, let self-love be the anchor that steadies you. Let it guide your decisions, your rest, your routines. Because when you put yourself at the center...not out of ego, but out of intention, you don’t push others away. You show up fuller, brighter, and more grounded for everything and everyone you care about.
So take the walk. Say No. Light the candle. Book the shoot. Write the letter to yourself. Wear the red lipstick just because. Show up for you.
Because self-love? It’s not selfish. It’s sacred.
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