Gals and guys may come and go, but the one relationship you ought to stay committed to is the one you have with yourself. And, if Abraham Maslow were living today, we're almost certain he'd consider making 'self-love' a pivotal part of his Hierarchy of Needs ideology. You may be too tall, too thin, too dark, too pale, but at the end of the day, you are you, and nobody can be you but you.
Beyond the tongue-twister of it all, we hope you comprehend the crux of the matter: Love yourself; wholly, truly, madly, deeply. If you didn't start loving yesterday, begin today. If not today, there's always tomorrow—but start all the same. One of Netflix's latest releases, Tall Girl 2, a sequel to the first, needless to say, titled 'Tall Girl', draws the viewer's attention to the point we're trying to make.
The coming-of-age teen romantic comedy follows the life of 'too-tall-for-her-own-good' Jodi Kreyman, who needs to learn how to 'stand tall' amid her newfound popularity in high school. Tall Girl, of course, explores her insecurities with her height, the struggle to find her own, and the realisation that she is far more than what high school bullies have led her to believe.
If you think you need a lil' self-esteem nudge too, we've put together a 'self-love' movie watchlist just for you.
Jab We Met (2007)
If Geet's "Main Apni Favourite Hoon" isn't self-love, we don't know what it is. While the movie revolves around Geet and Aditya's whirlwind romance, Geet's entire being exudes unabashed love for herself. Her optimistic approach to life, her independence, and her cheerful disposition is testament to the fact that if you really, really like 'you', all else will fall into place.
The Duff (2015)
Are you the Designated Ugly Fat Friend in your crew? Wait up; there's no such thing. Bianca's character compels you to fall in love with her, and with yourself. Her failed makeover attempt—and her super-relatable homecoming article—revolutionises the school's social order and forces you to sit up and wonder: Can't we just embrace who we are?
I Feel Pretty (2018)
The Amy Schumer-starrer is a thought-provoking film, sending across a positive, uplifting message to women across all age groups. In the words of the movie's co-director, "It's about self-confidence and self-love being so much more than just what you look like."
Queen (2013)
Rani's journey of self-discovery in the city of love fetches her a newfound appreciation for herself. She grows, she glows, she gains independence, and in the end, she bids her beau goodbye, reminding all of us that we need nobody else to make us feel complete, or happy.
Eat Pray Love (2010)
The film adaptation of the book, Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia, conveys an inspirational message: Happiness is the consequence of personal effort. You fight for it, strive for it, insist upon it, and sometimes, even travel around the world looking for it.
Isn't It Romantic (2019)
The ensemble cast movie features our very own desi girl Priyanka Chopra and mocks romantic comedies, promoting the notion of self-love. After all, 'isn't it romantic' to love yourself?
Penelope (2006)
And, in the end, she undoes the curse by loving herself—pig face and all—because that's ultimately the pathway to happiness, ain't it? Self-love forms the foundation of legit happiness.
Eighth Grade (2018)
Do you ever feel like you're not the person you're presenting yourself to be? A product of pretentiousness and nothing more? So does Kayla, the protagonist. Her earnest—but perfectly sensible and not contemptible—videos are about how to boost your confidence and self-esteem and overcome your fears.
Legally Blonde (2001)
Are you blonde, bougie, and badass? Heck yes, you do you! It's disingenuous to call Legally Blonde a romance when it's a lot more to do with determination, believing in yourself, and expecting more from yourself when many others don't.
English Vinglish (2012)
It's all about picking yourself up, choosing to work on your shortcomings, and believing in your abilities; all while holding your head high. Many a time, self-love must be purposefully generated, and Shashi Godbole—one of late Sridevi's most memorable characters—shows you exactly how, as she walks the path of self-discovery.