Turn the Table: Write an Open When Letter to Yourself

Trust me, self-love doesn’t have to be cheesy or forced. You deserve to be your own biggest fan. So, let’s dive into a couple of ways you can make writing “Open When” letters to yourself your new favorite self-help tool.

1. The Diary Approach – Pour Your Heart Out (And Then Stash It Away)

Sometimes, you just need a place to spill your feelings. It’s like talking to a friend but without the fear of judgment. Treat your letters like a diary where you can get all the emotions, doubts, and fears off your chest. You’ll feel lighter, more at ease, and—who knows?—maybe even inspired by what you wrote. You can be raw, honest, and messy with yourself because you get it.

Write envelope prompts like “Open when you feel like yourself again” or “Open when your world makes sense again” and keep them safe for later. Set a date to open them—or, even better, accidentally find them months down the road when you need it most. Then, look back and be amazed at how far you’ve come from those words. Sometimes we get so caught up in achieving the next thing that we forget to pause and appreciate where we are right now. These letters help keep you grounded in the present, stopping you from rushing headfirst into the future before it’s even here.

2. Goal Getter? Use ‘Open When’ Letters to Celebrate (and Stay Accountable)

Got a big goal you’re working toward? Here’s where your “Open When” letters come in clutch. Instead of waiting for someone else to congratulate you, why not give yourself a treat for each little milestone? You can set a letter to open for every victory—big or small. Try “Open when you land your dream job,” “Open when you’ve run your first 5K,” or “Open when you’re feeling unstoppable.” These letters can be both celebratory and motivational.

You could even make them progressive! Let’s say you’re working on a fitness goal. Your first letter could be “Open when you’ve run your first 1K,” then “Open when you’ve conquered 5K,” and so on. And don’t forget the most important one: “Open when you’ve signed up for that marathon!” Each letter is an opportunity to pause and appreciate your progress. Consider them little milestone treats that keep you on track and remind you of how much you’ve achieved.

The Takeaway: Don’t Just Wait for Others to Give You Love—Gift It to Yourself

In a world full of people-pleasers, competition, and comparison, it’s easy to put yourself last. But let me tell you something—you are worthy of your own love, care, and attention. You deserve to treat yourself with the same kindness you so easily extend to others. It’s not selfish; it’s self-care in its purest form. By writing yourself these “Open When” letters, you’re creating a self-love toolkit that’s always there when you need a reminder that you matter.

Take care of YOU before you take care of anyone else. It's not selfish, it's smart. And frankly, it's essential.