how do i learn to love do do things for my own sake alone?
That's such a great question, and honestly, it’s something so many of us struggle with. We’re often taught to do things for approval, for others, or for some kind of external reward—so doing things just because *we* want to can feel strange at first. Here’s what helped me: start small. Pick one tiny thing you enjoy—maybe listening to a certain album, taking a walk without your phone, or trying a new recipe—and do it with zero intention of sharing it or making it "productive." The goal is just to feel what it’s like to follow your own curiosity or pleasure, without anyone else in mind. You might notice guilt or that little voice asking, “What’s the point?” That’s normal. Acknowledge it, and gently remind yourself: the point is you. Your joy matters, even if it doesn’t serve anyone else. Over time, those small moments build into a deeper trust in yourself—that your desires are valid, and your own company is worth investing in. It’s not selfish; it’s self-respect.
