February: A Month of Love, Self-Discovery, and Bouquets of Affection

As I indulged in some post-Christmas sale shopping on December 27, I couldn't help but notice the store aisles swiftly transforming, filling up with Valentine's Day decorations. I distinctly recall thinking, "Please don't rush it; let's savor the present moment a little longer!"

Yet, as the calendar pages turned, January seemed to slip away in the blink of an eye, and here we are, swiftly approaching another Cupid Day.

As we step into February, the atmosphere is filled with hues of romantic love. Amidst the excitement and anticipation, it's crucial to recognize that the most profound and enduring love begins with the grace you extend to yourself. As a life coach, I've observed the stress that February 14 often brings, placing undue importance on having a significant other. This year let's shift our focus inward and understand that true love starts with the love you cultivate for yourself.

Personal Reflections

During my growing-up years, I was fortunate to learn this valuable lesson early on. Growing up in a household where love was not confined to a single day, but rather expressed the entire year, I witnessed a beautiful tradition. Every Friday, as my father commuted through Grand Central Terminal in NYC on his way home from work, he would pick up a bouquet for my mother —a tangible expression of his enduring love. He also brought a smaller bouquet for me, the other love in his life.

The Bouquets of Love

Those Friday night bouquets became a symbol of a deeper understanding—that expressions of love should be woven into the fabric of our daily lives, not reserved for special occasions. This weekly tradition instilled in me a mantra that has become a guiding principle in all my relationships: expect to feel loved and valued. I am committed to reciprocating that love tenfold, not only in romantic relationships but also in my interactions with friends and all those with whom I share a close bond.

Commit to Yourself

As February 14 approaches, I urge you not to listen to the societal pressures that may accompany the day. If you find yourself without a designated "valentine," remember that you possess the greatest gift—the ability to embark on a journey of self-love. This Valentine's Day, commit to showing yourself love every day, recognizing your worth, and refusing to settle for anything less than you deserve.

Extended Reflection

In a world that often emphasizes external validation, it is essential to cultivate a powerful sense of self-worth. Throughout my life coaching journey, I've witnessed the transformative power of self-love. It serves as a cornerstone for personal growth, resilience, and fulfillment. The practice of self-love goes beyond fleeting affirmations; it involves embracing your strengths and acknowledging areas for growth as well.

As we navigate through February, let it be a celebration of love in all its dimensions. Embrace this month with a commitment to self-love, recognizing that it is not a one-time event but a continuous journey. Throughout February, join me in exploring and sharing self-love tips—simple yet powerful practices that nurture your well-being. Remember, the love you extend to yourself sets the tone for the love you can offer others, and the love and respect you demand from the world.

Embrace the beauty of self-love, not just on February 14, but every day of the year!