Saturday, October 11, was the World Mental Health Day, and this year has been particularly rough for a lot of people. But, this shouldn’t be a reason for us to not focus on ourselves.
Self-love doesn't come easy for everyone. Some days, it feels like everything is doing well—you can look at yourself in front of the mirror without hesitation, or you can take a photo of yourself and upload it online because you are proud. And sometimes, things get a little heavier and draining—and all that you just need is a little reminder from your friends, family, and yes, even from your favorite artists, to help you get up and continue with your journey to self-acceptance.
And to remind you that you're worthy, these 10 songs will make you realize what you see in the mirror when you're feeling down are all wrong.
My Future by Billie Eilish
My Future is a song by an 18 year old Grammy Award winner American singer Billie Eilish, who’s also already tagged as “Queen of Sad Electropop” at the young age. My Future describes someone’s future optimistically. Albeit the song does not only discusses about a promising future, but abandoning her past.
Truth Hurts by Lizzo
Truth Hurts topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for seven weeks on September last year. With an intro like, "I just took a DNA test, turns out I'm 100% that b*tch," the song reminds you that breakups happen for a reason, bad things happen, and you can still carry on because you are a 100% bad b*tch.
Still Have Me by Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato is known to have been releasing self-empowering songs in the likes of “Give Your Heart A Break”, “Warrior”, and “I Love Me.” Still Have Me is a song released after her break up with her fiancé. “I don't have much but at least I still have me… And that's all I need”
Beautiful by Christina Aguilera
Beautiful is a 2002 song with a music video that shows self-worth couple. The message of the song speaks to everyone, as many people who experienced getting bullied, discriminated and abhorred were able to relate to the music. The lyrics “I am beautiful. No matter what they say. Words can't bring me down” became a mantra for many until today.
Can’t Take That Away by Mariah Carey
Can’t Take That Away was also written by the Grammy award-winning musician Mariah Carey, from her album called Rainbow. “They can say anything they want to say. Try to bring me down. But I won't face the ground. I will rise steadily—sailing out of their reach” The 1999 track delivered a message that you are going to continue shining despite the dirt being splattered around you.
Firework by Katy Perry
Firework is a 2010 pop hit that promotes self-worth and empowerment which resonates well with many people. “You don't have to feel like a waste of space. You’re original, cannot be replaced,” The song talks to people who are struggling to love themselves, and accept their flaws.
All About That Base by Meghan Trainor
Released on June 30, 2014, All About That Bass is the debut single of the singer and songwriter Meghan Trainor. The lyrics of the song intended to promote positive body image and self-acceptance. "Yeah, it's pretty clear, I ain't no size two. But I can shake it, shake it. Like I'm supposed to do"
Me Too by Meghan Trainor
Just like All About That Base, Trainor’s Me Too promotes body positivity and self-appreciation. Its lyrics urge listeners to be more contented and confident of themselves. With its upbeat music, it can really uplift someone doubting themselves. “And I can’t help loving myself, and I don’t need nobody else. If I was you, I’d wanna be me too.”
Tahanan by Munimuni
Tahanan is perfect for uplifting and comforting those people who are hurting and going through a lot. The song tells us that everything has its end—even our own struggles. Tahanan is a song you would want to hear when you feel like bad times won’t cease. “Hanggang dito na lamang ang iyong mga luha. Tama na, tahan na.”
I understand that there are days that you find yourself really hard to love and accept—that you can’t fathom the reason of your existence. But I hope that one day, you would get to realize that you are worth much more than what your mind demeans you into thinking— that one day, you will finally get to fully embrace yourself.