Updated with Love on February 13, 2025
Aww, Love Sweet Love ❤️
But here’s the thing—we can only give out what we have ourselves. If our love bucket is running on half-empty because we only give love outward and never direct it inward, it’s only a matter of time before we run dry.
And that’s a problem because this love bucket? It’s our greatest source of power.
Here’s the truth:
You are the only one who can fill up your own love bucket. No one else—not your kids, your job, your partner, or that gorgeous new handbag (although, let’s be honest, a little retail therapy does feel good). The way we feel loved and valued is directly tied to how much love and value we believe we have.
Feeling lovable = Feeling loved.
People may love the heck out of you, but if you don’t feel lovable on the inside, you won’t fully receive it. And you can only feel the real joy of giving love—freely and without strings attached—when you aren’t secretly hoping it’ll fill up your own empty bucket.
So if you want to give and receive love fully, you must first feel lovable and valuable just as you are. (And no, I’m not talking about the value that comes from making dinner, packing lunches, or keeping everything running at home—I mean the kind that comes simply from being human.)
This Valentine’s Day, Show Yourself Some Love ❤️
Let’s start today—on this day of love—by pouring some (okay, a lot) of love back into ourselves.
Here are even more ways to love yourself today and every day:
- Get yourself a sweet Valentine’s card. (Yes, from you, to you!)
- Write yourself a love letter. List everything you love and appreciate about yourself.
- Go on a solo movie date. Treat yourself to your favorite film, popcorn, and all.
- Cook something YOU love. (Because let’s be real, most of the time, you’re making what everyone else likes.)
- Buy yourself a small Valentine’s gift. A little token of love, just for you.
- Schedule “me time” in your calendar—and honor it.
- Get yourself fresh flowers. (Or a beautiful plant if flowers aren’t your thing.)
- Start a gratitude practice. Gratitude is a direct line to self-love.
- Upgrade your chocolate game. Buy yourself a high-quality box of chocolate (like this one) and savor every bite.
- Take a long, intentional walk. Enjoy your own company, breathe in fresh air, and soak in the moment.
- Have a DIY spa night. A warm bath, a face mask (this one is amazing), and your favorite cozy robe (like this one).
- Invest in something that makes you feel amazing. Whether it’s a plush new pillow, cozy cotton pajamas (these are dreamy), or a candle that makes your home feel like a sanctuary.
- Read a book just for fun. No self-improvement books required—just pure enjoyment.
- Try something new. A new hobby, a new workout class, a new recipe—something just for you.
- Say no to something that drains you. Protect your energy and set boundaries.
- Say yes to something that excites you. Even if it’s out of your comfort zone.
And if any of this feels a little self-indulgent or selfish, let’s talk about that.
Love Is Unlimited
If you’re looking at love through a “them or me” lens, I get it. But love—real love—isn’t a limited resource.
Think of love like sunshine. When you step outside and soak it in, it doesn’t mean there’s less for someone else. We can all stand in the warmth together.
The same goes for love. You don’t have to choose between loving yourself and loving others—there’s more than enough for everyone.
So today, when you’re giving out Valentine’s love, don’t forget yourself.
Make it a habit to love yourself—all of you—more often, more fully, and without conditions.
❤️❤️
