Valentine’s Day is either an excuse to go on a romantic date with a significant other, a time to gather a group of gal-pals and watch sappy rom-coms, or a reason to treat yourself to that overpriced box of assorted chocolate truffles. Whatever you are planning for Valentine’s Day, I just want to remind you that it is also a time when we can show ourselves a little extra love. Here is a list of my top seven self-love anthems that you can jam out to on any day of the year.
7) “Perfect” by P!nk
We all know P!nk: singer, mother, UNICEF ambassador and anti-bullying advocate who was able to make her way to the big stage from her humble beginnings of flipping burgers at McDonald’s. The fact that she was the one to propose to her husband only adds to her clout as a strong female force. Basically, this song makes you feel like you can be as badass as she is. It’s the perfect song to play when you’re feeling, as the song puts it, “less than perfect.” This tune embodies everything a self-hype up song should be. And it’s catchy.
6) “Scars to your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara
With this song, Alessia Cara manages to create a fresh, new take on the classic self-love anthem. Though more of a ballad than a #banger, this soft and emotional tune will make you want to grab the hand of your best friend and tell them how flawless they are. It promotes self-love and positivity without overdoing it. And Alessia Cara’s down-to-earth-but-confident vibe only adds to the effect.
5) “Run the World (Girls)” by Beyoncé
This is the ultimate female empowerment song. It is a perfect banger for anyone who’s just damn sick of the patriarchy — especially during a holiday that can generate stigma about being single. This song makes you feel like nothing in the world can stand in your way while also promoting strong female comradery, both of which we could all use a little more of. Also, it’s by Beyoncé. Even just listening to her voice makes me feel a little bit blessed.
4) “Shake it Off” by Taylor Swift
Okay, I know that Taylor Swift has become somewhat of a controversial public figure lately, but come on. You know you like this song — don’t deny it. Unreasonably catchy and with an empowering message, “Shake it Off” is a winner. This song is guaranteed to put you in a better mood — and it might just make you stand up and shake it off.
3) “Beautiful” by Christina Aguilera
This song is a more subtle version of a self-love anthem. Christina’s heavenly vocals coupled with her raw and vulnerable lyrics could bring a tear to any dry eye. This song is sure to make you cry, but it will also make you stand up taller — and hopefully, feel a little more beautiful.
2) “Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson
Arguably the most successful singer to emerge from American Idol, Kelly Clarkson has been producing jams since 2002. “Breakaway” is no exception. Play this song at a party and I guarantee everyone will start singing along. The song was also featured in Princess Diaries (arguably one of the best movies of all time), giving us even more of a reason to love it. Blast this song on repeat and you may just spread your wings and learn how to fly.
1) “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child
“Survivor” is one of the best go-to-karaoke tracks and the greatest self-love anthem of all time, hands-down. “Survivor” has everything you could ever want from a feel-good, I’m-a-strong-independent-(insert relevant pronoun)-song: amazing vocals, a clap-along beat, inspiring lyrics and of course, Beyoncé. It’s the perfect tune to blast in the shower when you need a little extra pep in your step.
