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What Does Loving

Yourself Look Like?

by Maria Gracia Published on March 1, 2026 Discover how GON readers define self-love, self- care, and personal well-being during the late winter and early spring season…and explore the thoughtful reflections that show how caring for yourself can take many meaningful forms Join our newsletter to be notified when new content is added to our website. The Many Ways Readers Practice Self-Love When we asked GON readers what loving themselves looks like, the responses reflected a thoughtful, balanced approach to personal wellness, home organization, and emotional health. As winter begins to loosen its grip and spring approaches, many readers are focusing on renewal, energy, and gentle self-care. The top response, with 28% of the vote, was “All of the above, honestly.” This tells us that for many readers, self-love isn’t just one habit or routine. It’s a combination of nourishing the body, creating peaceful spaces, resting when needed, setting boundaries, and allowing small treats without guilt. Readers are embracing a more holistic approach to well-being. Coming in second, with 19%, was “Making sure my body is nourished and cared for.” This highlights the importance of healthy meals, hydration, movement, medical care, and listening to physical needs. Many readers see taking care of their health as a foundational form of self-respect and long-term self- love. Close behind, 17% of readers chose “Clearing clutter so I can breathe.” Once again, we see the strong connection between physical space and mental clarity. Decluttering and organizing aren’t just about appearances. They help create calm, reduce stress, and support emotional well-being. “Resting more and doing less” earned 10% of the vote, reminding us that slowing down is often an act of courage. In a culture that values constant productivity, choosing rest is a powerful form of self- care. At 9%, “Treating myself (coffee counts)” shows that small, intentional pleasures matter. Whether it’s a favorite drink, a quiet moment, or a simple indulgence, readers recognize that joy plays an important role in emotional balance. “Other” responses made up 8%, reflecting the many unique ways people care for themselves. From travel to creative outlets to spiritual practices, self-love looks different for everyone. Meanwhile, 5% of readers selected “Working toward a new personal goal,” showing that growth and self- improvement are also acts of self-respect. And 4% chose “Saying no without guilt,” a reminder that healthy boundaries remain a challenge, but an important one. Together, these results paint a picture of readers who are learning to care for themselves in practical, compassionate, and sustainable ways. Loving yourself isn’t about perfection. It’s about balance, awareness, and kindness toward your own needs. Below, you’ll find the full poll results and personal reader comments that beautifully capture this theme.. Poll Results 28% All of the above, honestly 19% Making sure my body is nourished and cared for 17% Clearing clutter so I can breathe 10% Resting more and doing less 9% Treating myself (coffee counts) 8% Other 5% Working toward a new personal goal 4% Saying no without guilt Personal GON Reader Comments • Being single, loving myself means spending time with family and friends and not just going to work and going home • Spending more time outdoors, even if it’s just a short walk • Going to bed earlier and protecting my sleep • I don’t really enjoy exercising, but it’s important if I want to take care of myself and my health • Going on a trip! • Taking care of myself more without guilt • Doing taxes early to avoid the April crunch so I can get outside then with the nicer weather • Finally organizing my photos and family memories • Walking without using a walker as much as possible so I can get back to a more normal life. I've had a full knee replacement. • Keeping my home calm and uncluttered so I feel peaceful • Enjoying winter activities with friends. Here in Ottawa we celebrate Winterlude and skating on the world's largest skating rink. Laughing and having fun with friends always picks me up. And boy do we have fun and laugh with different friends each weekend in February • Learning to cook healthier meals instead of relying on takeout • Saying no to commitments that leave me exhausted • I treat myself by giving myself timeout in my easy chair and reading. Usually with a cup of coffee or tea. You will never be lonely when you have a book in your hand • Thank you for that "All of the above" choice. All are important and exemplify self-love! • Clearing clutter…and chocolate, of course! • Allowing myself quiet mornings before the day gets busy • Making time for creative hobbies like painting and writing Back to Web Poll Results Index