Garland, TX – Valentine’s Day is often associated with candy hearts, red roses, and cards for loved ones. However, this February 14, a new trend is emerging. In 2026, more individuals than ever are focusing on the concept of “self-love.” While it may sound like a big term, self-love simply means being kind to yourself and taking care of your mental and physical well-being.
Self love can feel like an overly fluffy nicety, but what exactly is it? Demonstrating self love can look like:
- Buying yourself a gift
- Tending to your body in a nurturing way
- Showing compassion and grace towards yourself by learning to forgive yourself. Try reaching this by saying to yourself “I’m not perfect and what I did doesn’t align with who I am.. Now that I know better, I’ll do better.”
- Standing up for yourself when others are dismissive of your needs. That may sound like “I know you were kidding earlier, however you hit a sore spot for me and I don’t want you to talk to me like that again.”
One of the most courageous ways to show yourself love is by seeking help when times get tough. Adults, too, experience “big feelings” such as stress from work, anxiety about relationships, or lingering sadness. Most of us have never been taught how to handle these situations. Consider investing in learning how to:
- Handle your emotions: Emotional regulation doesn’t rid you of the issue at hand, however it equips you with skills to remain calm and composed during stressful moments.
- Build self-confidence: Recognizing your strengths fosters a greater sense of self-worth in personal and professional relationships.
- Relieve stress in healthy ways: Amongst the many unhealthy ways to relieve stress, learning healthy sustainable coping skills is necessary.
Make 2026 Your Year
There are a ton of free resources online and at the library for self help. However, just as you would consult a doctor for a physical ailment, seek out a therapist if your emotional challenges are too much to address on your own. Loving yourself means acknowledging that you deserve to feel happy and supported.
This Valentine’s Day, remember: the most important relationship you will ever have is the one with yourself.
