Amie Leadingham explains why self-care can lead to fulfilling relationships, interview
Whether it is putting a toe in the dating pool or jumping into the deep end, Amie Leadingham has some poignant advice to offer to help make the whole experience go more swimmingly. While everyone might have different backgrounds, sensibilities, or even goals, there ‘s one common thread unites everyone’s experience. Celebrating a confident, reliant self-image is the positive beginning that starts any meaningful journey.
For those unfamiliar with Amie Leadingham, she is a relationship expert. Although her advice might not always be easy to hear, it might be the words that can spark change. Beyond her relationship guidance, some of her commentaries apply to self-worth. A person cannot welcome others into their lives without knowing who they are and being open to the potential experience.
Amie Leadingham talks setting dating expectations.
While many people long for that fairy tale romance, the reality is those movie moments are fictional. Even if the idea of prince charming lingers in the mind, the reality is that expectations need to be set before those romantic fantasies can become a reality.
“It is so important to set expectations with yourself first, to be clear about your relationship non-negotiables (deal breakers); these are not superficial things like someone’s height,” Leadingham said. “Instead, they are the core values of a person they want to match with their ideal partner to have a happy relationship. For example, matching spiritual beliefs, family values, or financial spending habits. Having this list of non-negotiables will help singles enter dating with ease and allow a person to screen a potential partner with confidence.”
But, that confidence does need to come from within. Since some people subscribe to the idea that if you look good, you feel good, Leadingham offers this advice to that appearance of confidence.
Even though people might have spent the past year on the couch, it can be time to ditch the messy bun and give that look an upgrade. Leadingham believes, “When you look good, you feel good. Feeling good raises your vibration as a person. Like attracts like, if you want to attract a quality partner, then it starts with YOU. Investing in self-care tools like the Shark HyperAIR Hair Dryer and IQ Stylers will help you consistently bring out your confidence, celebrate your true authentic self and bring power to your hair.”
Even though the celebrities and influencers might make it seem that everyone has a glam squad waiting in the wings, the reality is that a great look doesn’t require a team effort. In some cases, it is about having the right tools in the toolbox.
When asked about making a great first impression, Leadingham had some simple, yet attainable advice. She said, “first impressions are everything. Whether it is a virtual date, in-person date, or a job interview, you only have 7 seconds to make a first impression. Your overall attitude, style, and hair do a lot of talking. Set yourself up for the most success; plan your outfit, makeup, and hairstyle out ahead of time for your in-person meet-ups so that you can feel fabulous and empowered.”
From wavy hair for a romantic evening to a sleek look for a sophisticated event, Leadingham believes that “the Shark HyperAIR Hair Dryer and IQ Stylers are the perfect styling tool and wing mate to help achieve any style, add power to your hair and get out in the world with poise.”
And even though there are both good hair days and others that are not always quite as successful, Leadingham encourages people to learn to appreciate those less than perfect moments.
Specifically, Leadingham said, “When you feel like nothing is going well and it is hard to stay positive, the key is to embrace your imperfections. Know that if you accept yourself during this challenging time, you are making a statement of self-love. By celebrating your imperfections, you will attract a person who will love you for your authentic self and through the moments of imperfections.”
That idea of attracting the person that people want is key to any successful relationship. But, that goal cannot be achieved without looking within oneself. As Leadingham explains, investing in yourself should be a priority.
Leadingham said, “We tend to attract what we are, so how you feel about yourself inside really shows up outside and how the world relates to you. I always say be an example of the type of person you want to attract. Investing in your self-care is crucial, and this could mean saying NO to things that do not bring you joy anymore. For example, do you have to let go of a negative friend or maybe do you have to say no to overworking yourself? Then focus on what you want to say YES to in your life. What do you want to do that positively feeds your soul with your free time? Also, investing in tools such as the Shark HyperAIR Hair Dryer and Styling System can help add some more self-care to your routine, so you can look good and most importantly, feel good.”
While looking good can build some self-confidence, it is just part of the equation. One idea that Leadingham subscribes to is the idea of conscious dating. Although the phrase might sound lofty, the concept is easy to appreciate.
Leadingham describes her conscious dating in this way, “Being conscious starts with mindfulness of patterns that exist in our habits. Many singles wing it when it comes to dating; they rarely recognize the negative patterns that attract the same person with a different face. Conscious dating is about understanding your specific habits that create good or bad results. By taking accountability, singles realize that they have a choice to choose differently. As a result, they experience positive outcomes and find the lasting relationship they deserve.”
And, the biggest takeaway from any dating experience is really simple. Leadingham believes that there is always something to be learned from any experience. Whether it is a positive or negative event, one thing is always clear.
She said, to find dating takeaways and opportunities where they may come. For example, “After every date, make a note of what you liked and did not like about each date. Focus on what you learned about yourself and your date. What would you do the next time differently? Each date is a learning opportunity and a way you can practice your dating skills.”
While the old school fairy tale of a prince whisking away his princess before the stroke of midnight might be fantasy, the reality is that everyone is worthy of an equal partner to join them on their journey. That moment of happily ever after starts by looking within oneself.