8 Ways to Choose Yourself Without Guilt
Gurjeet Kaur | Apr 11, 2025, 23:30 IST
Ever wondered how loving yourself can change everything? This piece is all about why self-love isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a must! We’re talking real reasons it matters (happiness, confidence, better vibes), relatable struggles (hello, “log kya kahenge?”), and 10 desi-style tricks to get started—like dancing to Bollywood beats or sipping chai for a win. With stories of everyday folks and a nod to our Indian roots (think Krishna’s flute!), it’s a fun, easy guide to kick guilt out and spread joy, starting with you.
Hey, have you ever thought about giving yourself a little love? Self-love isn’t some fancy buzzword—it’s about looking after yourself, embracing who you are (warts and all!), and knowing you’re worth it. In our non-stop, crazy-busy lives, we’re always chasing—making others happy, waiting for a “wah wah” from someone, and totally forgetting ourselves. But here’s the real deal: if you don’t fill your own cup with love, how will you pour it out for others? Let’s talk about why loving yourself matters, hear some relatable stories, and check out 10 super-desi ways to boost your happiness and strength—simple stuff anyone in India can try!
Self-love is like giving yourself a pat on the back instead of a scolding. It’s not new—our grandparents probably did it without calling it “self-love”—but today, we’re too caught up to notice. We’re so busy pleasing the boss, family, or even the nosy aunty next door that we push ourselves to the back. Truth is, if you don’t cheer for yourself, loving others feels half-hearted. So, let’s dive in—why’s it a big deal, who’s rocking it already, and how can you start with easy, Indian-style tricks? All in words that feel like a chat over chai!
Okay, let’s get real—why should you care about self-love? It’s not just some feel-good talk; it actually changes your life. Here’s why putting yourself first is worth it, in a way that hits home. Look, if you’re not okay with yourself, no amount of money, likes, or even your favorite biryani will fix that. When you know your worth, you don’t let people walk all over you. You set lines—like, “Sorry, I can’t do that”—and suddenly, you’re surrounded by folks who actually get you and treat you right.
Loving yourself is like having an inner cheerleader. You start thinking, “Hey, I can do this!” Whether it’s a tough exam or a big fight, you face it with guts instead of doubt.Keeps You Fit and Fab: When you care about yourself, you don’t skip meals or pull all-nighters just to please someone. You eat your dal-chawal with some greens, take a nap, maybe walk a bit—your body and mind stay in top shape.
In India, we’re often taught to put family, society, or duty first. “Log kya kahenge?” (What will people say?) stops us from caring for ourselves. Social media makes it worse—perfect pictures make us feel less. But self-love isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. If your cup is empty, how can you share with others?
In India, we grow up idolizing legends like Lord Krishna and Goddess Durga—strong, fearless, larger than life. But have you noticed? Krishna didn’t just lead battles; he played his flute, chilled by the river. Durga took down demons, but with such grace! That’s self-love right there—knowing your strength and still finding joy in the little things. Our culture is big on duty—family first, society second—but it doesn’t mean you should forget yourself. Lighting a diya for your own calm, sneaking a quiet moment with your thoughts—that’s self-love, Indian ishtyle. It’s not about ditching responsibility; it’s about balancing it with a little love for you
Many of us feel guilty about self-care. “If I rest, am I lazy?” No! Think of it like charging your phone—if it’s dead, it’s useless. You’re the same. A little love for yourself makes you better for everyone else. When you start loving yourself, it’s like tossing a pebble in a pond—everyone around feels the waves! Your children notice when you smile and begin to think, "Hey, I'm pretty cool too." Your pals notice how laid-back you are, and they start laughing more when you're around. Even your boss, who is typically all "kaam karo!" finds that calm confidence and spark in you. It's not just your victory; it's like an increase in happiness for everyone you come into contact with.
Self-love isn't a luxury; it's a necessity, as fundamental as roti and dal. All you need is a little heart to say, "Okay, I'll try," and neither a large fortune nor an abundance of free time. It is comparable to sowing a small tulsi seed; with a little attention, you will soon have a flourishing plant. Take a little nap, play your favorite old Kishore Kumar song, or simply say to yourself, "I'm trying, and that's enough," as a lovely treat for yourself today. Believe me, you deserve it.
Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life!
1. Love Your Self
love
( Image credit : Freepik )
Self-love is like giving yourself a pat on the back instead of a scolding. It’s not new—our grandparents probably did it without calling it “self-love”—but today, we’re too caught up to notice. We’re so busy pleasing the boss, family, or even the nosy aunty next door that we push ourselves to the back. Truth is, if you don’t cheer for yourself, loving others feels half-hearted. So, let’s dive in—why’s it a big deal, who’s rocking it already, and how can you start with easy, Indian-style tricks? All in words that feel like a chat over chai!
2. Why It Is A Big Deal
Heart
( Image credit : Freepik )
Okay, let’s get real—why should you care about self-love? It’s not just some feel-good talk; it actually changes your life. Here’s why putting yourself first is worth it, in a way that hits home. Look, if you’re not okay with yourself, no amount of money, likes, or even your favorite biryani will fix that. When you know your worth, you don’t let people walk all over you. You set lines—like, “Sorry, I can’t do that”—and suddenly, you’re surrounded by folks who actually get you and treat you right.
3. A Confident Rockstar
Confident Women
( Image credit : Freepik )
Loving yourself is like having an inner cheerleader. You start thinking, “Hey, I can do this!” Whether it’s a tough exam or a big fight, you face it with guts instead of doubt.Keeps You Fit and Fab: When you care about yourself, you don’t skip meals or pull all-nighters just to please someone. You eat your dal-chawal with some greens, take a nap, maybe walk a bit—your body and mind stay in top shape.
4. Struggle with Self-Love
5. Super-Easy Ways to Love Yourself More
Beautiful Women
( Image credit : Freepik )
- Stand in front of the mirror and say, “I’m enough, yaar!” It might feel weird at first—like you’re in a Bollywood scene—but keep at it. You’ll start believing it.
- Tired? Just stop. Take a break, lie down, or sip some water. Don’t run yourself into the ground—you’re not a machine!
- Put on a peppy Bollywood track and dance like nobody’s watching, or stroll in the park. It’s not about sweating—it’s about feeling alive.
- Messed up? No biggie. Say, “It’s okay, I’ll do better next time,” and let it go. Don’t sit there scolding yourself like a strict teacher. Too much on your plate? It’s fine to say, “Sorry, not today.” Your time and energy aren’t unlimited—guard them!
- Finished something—maybe a chore or a call? Grab a chai or a laddoo and say, “Good job, me!” Small wins count big.
- Hang Out with Yourself: Switch off the noise—sit quietly or play your favorite song. It’s like a mini-date with you, getting to know what’s in your heart.
- Your friend got a shiny new phone or a cool job? Awesome for them, but your journey’s different. Keep your eyes on your own road.
- Feeling down? Pick up the phone and call a buddy or your sibling. You don’t have to fight every battle solo—asking for a chat is strength, not weakness.
6. Self-Love, Desi Style
Sunflower
In India, we grow up idolizing legends like Lord Krishna and Goddess Durga—strong, fearless, larger than life. But have you noticed? Krishna didn’t just lead battles; he played his flute, chilled by the river. Durga took down demons, but with such grace! That’s self-love right there—knowing your strength and still finding joy in the little things. Our culture is big on duty—family first, society second—but it doesn’t mean you should forget yourself. Lighting a diya for your own calm, sneaking a quiet moment with your thoughts—that’s self-love, Indian ishtyle. It’s not about ditching responsibility; it’s about balancing it with a little love for you
7. Self-Love Spreads Like Magic
Happy Women
( Image credit : Freepik )
Many of us feel guilty about self-care. “If I rest, am I lazy?” No! Think of it like charging your phone—if it’s dead, it’s useless. You’re the same. A little love for yourself makes you better for everyone else. When you start loving yourself, it’s like tossing a pebble in a pond—everyone around feels the waves! Your children notice when you smile and begin to think, "Hey, I'm pretty cool too." Your pals notice how laid-back you are, and they start laughing more when you're around. Even your boss, who is typically all "kaam karo!" finds that calm confidence and spark in you. It's not just your victory; it's like an increase in happiness for everyone you come into contact with.
Self-love isn't a luxury; it's a necessity, as fundamental as roti and dal. All you need is a little heart to say, "Okay, I'll try," and neither a large fortune nor an abundance of free time. It is comparable to sowing a small tulsi seed; with a little attention, you will soon have a flourishing plant. Take a little nap, play your favorite old Kishore Kumar song, or simply say to yourself, "I'm trying, and that's enough," as a lovely treat for yourself today. Believe me, you deserve it.
Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life!