Love Thyself: 10 Must-Read Self-Love Books This Valentine’s Day
Last Update on February 13, 2024 : Published on February 14, 2024
A day of celebrating love, Valentine’s Day is the most anticipated time for couples around the world to spend their day with their S/Os. But, amid all the lovey-dovey couples and relationships, we tend to forget the most important relationship of them all; The love for ourselves.
This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate the relationship that marks the beginning of true love – the one with ourselves.
In a world where we’re constantly surrounded by images and messages telling us how we’re losing touch with ourselves, how our self-expectations become our downfall, and how our idea of loving ourselves comes from selfish intentions, practicing self-love becomes imperative. Self-love is about accepting ourselves for who we are and treating ourselves with the kindness and compassion that we deserve.
When we love ourselves unconditionally, we become more resilient, confident, and capable of creating meaningful connections with others and ourselves.
So, to honor this Valentine’s Day with self-love, I’ve created a must-read list for you that you can pick up for yourself to celebrate the month of love and affection, and beyond that too!
10 Self-Love Books You Need to Read!
1. “The Gift of Imperfection” by Brené Brown
Brené Brown, a renowned researcher, explores the power of embracing our imperfections in “The Gift of Imperfection”. This book can help transform your life and escape the trap of perfectionism to enjoy being an imperfect version of yourself. This book, with personal anecdotes from the researcher herself, guides you to living your authentic self, and be who you are.
2. “You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero
Sometimes, you need a witty and no-nonsense approach to become someone better, and Jen Sincero “You Are a Badass” delivers exactly that! This book should be on your Valentine’s TBR list if you’re looking to kick self-doubt to the curb and become a badass. With practical advice and inspiring anecdotes, this book is sure to motivate you to live your best life, and on your own terms too!
3. “The Body Is Not An Apology” by Sonya Renee Taylor
As a plus-size woman, I get a lot of comments on my weight and build. These comments make me feel insecure about myself, even when I know I can live with confidence. That’s what society does, but with Sonya Renee Taylor’s, “The Body Is Not An Apology”, you learn to live your life in your body as it is. Through powerful prose and thought-provoking exercises, you can learn to accept self-love and knock down society’s oppressive standards of beauty that tell us that we’re not enough.
4. “Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends on It” by Kamal Ravikant
Get inspired by the personal journey of self-discovery and self-love in this short yet thoughtful book. Kamal Ravikant, in “Love Yourself…” talks about the practice of self-love and mindfulness. This book explains that with a simple act of mindfulness, it becomes truly easy to love ourselves as well as live a fulfilling and satisfying life. So, are you ready for a lesson on using mindfulness as a self-love tool? Add this book to your TBR pile, now!
5. “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle
There’s something powerful about living in the present and letting go of ego. Eckhart Tolle’s classic “The Power of Now” offers some great insights into ego and living mindfully. When you let go of your past regrets and future anxieties, you learn to find true peace and contentment right where it is meant to be; within yourself.
6. “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear” by Elizabeth Gilbert
From the desk of the author of “Eat Pray Love” comes this encouraging “Big Magic” on how you can embrace your creativity and pursue your passions, fearlessly. With some warmth and humor, Elizabeth Gilbert reminds us that our self-worth is not tied to external approval and that the simple act of creating is inherently enjoyable.
7. “The Self-Love Experiment” by Shannon Kaiser
If you’re looking for a practical guide to self-love then this is it. “The Self-Love Experiment” offers practical tips for transforming your relationship with yourself. With personal anecdotes and actionable exercises, you can feel empowered to release the heavy baggage of self-criticism and accept self-compassion with open arms.
8. “Radical Acceptance: Embracing Your Life With The Heart of a Buddha” by Tara Brach
Tara Brach, a renowned psychologist, explores the power of radical acceptance in “Radical Acceptance…”. Drawing on Buddhist teachings and philosophies, along with mindfulness exercises, you are guided on the journey of self-acceptance and inner peace. This self-love book offers you a path to inner freedom.
9. “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle
If you’ve ever dreamed of breaking free from the chains of societal expectations, then you need to add “Untamed” to your TBR pile, too. Glennon Doyle shares the journey of embracing your true self from her own experiences. Packed with raw honesty and determination, this book inspires you to trust your instincts, speak your truth, and reclaim the untamed nature of yourself.
10. “The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom” by Don Miguel Ruiz
Another self-love book to add to your ever-growing pile of Valentine’s reads is “The Four Agreements…” by Don Miguel Ruiz. This book reveals the source of your self-limiting beliefs. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, it is believed that four simple agreements have the power to transform your life. When you practice these agreements which are – be impeccable with your word, don’t take things personally, don’t make assumptions, and be your best – you can live your life with more authenticity and self-love.
This Valentine’s Day, give yourself the gift of self-love by reading (or at least adding) these books. Remember, the most important relationship you have is with yourself, so treat yourself with the same love, compassion, and kindness that you’d treat your S/Os or friends with.
“Love yourself. Love who you are, because it’s your life, and you’re the only person you should really rely on.” — SUGA of BTS
Happy Reading!
Next Read:
About The Author
Swarnakshi Sharma
Swarnakshi is a content writer at Calm sage, who believes in a healthier lifestyle for mind and body. A fighter and survivor of depression, she strives to reach and help spread awareness on ending the stigma surrounding mental health issues. A spiritual person at heart, she believes in destiny and the power of Self. She is an avid reader and writer and likes to spend her free time baking and learning about world cultures.
