What is Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag?

Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag, or Be True to Yourself Day, is celebrated on November 16th in the Netherlands. This unique day was founded by Janneke de Kler as a reminder for individuals to commit to themselves, honoring their own needs, identity, and well-being. The day was inspired by Janneke’s personal story: on the same day, she lost her job and learned that her husband wanted a divorce. The difficult experience led her to realize that the most important relationship is the one with oneself. To celebrate this, she chose what would have been her wedding anniversary as Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag, turning a painful day into a positive tradition of self-reflection and self-love.

History and Origin

The idea for Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag came after Janneke’s life-altering day. Following her job loss and the end of her marriage, she spent what would have been her wedding day thinking deeply about who she was and what she wanted, without any obligations to others. “I was always loyal to my husband, my boss… everyone but myself,” Janneke said. Reflecting on this, she took that anniversary date as a day to be true to herself.

As she shared her story on social media, Janneke received an overwhelming response. Many people resonated with her message, sparking a wave of interest and leading her to create a dedicated event for Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag. The day has since grown, with events that promote self-awareness, self-reflection, and the importance of valuing oneself.

Who Celebrates Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag?

• Individuals Seeking Self-Reflection: People use this day to take time for themselves, reflect on their life choices, and consider how they can be more true to their own needs and desires.
• Personal Development Groups: Self-help groups and communities focused on personal growth often celebrate the day with workshops, discussions, or journaling activities focused on self-awareness.
• Friends and Family Members: People encourage each other to prioritize self-care and to take a step back from obligations to reflect on their personal values and goals.
• Life Coaches and Wellness Professionals: Coaches, therapists, and wellness professionals use the day to promote self-care, self-commitment, and the importance of putting oneself first.

Slogans and Themes

Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag centers around themes of self-loyalty, reflection, and growth. Common slogans include “Be Loyal to Yourself First,” emphasizing the importance of self-priority, and “Celebrate the Relationship with Yourself,” encouraging people to honor their individual journey. Another theme is “Rediscover Who You Are,” inviting reflection on one’s identity beyond external relationships or expectations. The day’s message is one of self-awareness and self-empowerment, fostering a sense of personal pride and inner strength.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors

• Soft Blue and White: Reflecting peace and introspection, these colors align with the calm, reflective nature of the day.
• Warm Yellow and Gold: Representing self-worth, warmth, and positivity, these colors emphasize self-love and renewal.
• Green: Symbolizing growth and personal development, green reflects the journey of self-discovery.

Symbols

• Mirror: Representing self-reflection, a mirror symbolizes the day’s focus on introspection and understanding oneself.
• Heart: A universal symbol of love, the heart represents the self-love and care that Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag promotes.
• Open Hands: Symbolizing acceptance and self-compassion, open hands encourage kindness toward oneself.

Patterns

• Gentle Waves and Flowing Lines: Reflecting the journey of self-discovery, these patterns suggest fluidity and growth.
• Circles and Spirals: Representing wholeness and self-focus, these patterns symbolize coming back to oneself.
• Sun and Light Motifs: Adding warmth and positivity, these motifs reflect the strength and empowerment of prioritizing oneself.

How to Celebrate Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag

There are various ways to observe Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag, whether attending events or practicing self-care at home:

• Take a Day for Self-Care: Use this day to prioritize yourself by doing things that bring you peace and joy, such as taking a long walk, enjoying a favorite meal, or spending time alone.
• Join an Event or Workshop: Janneke organizes events each year, often featuring talks and sessions focused on self-awareness and empowerment. Attending an event can help you connect with others on a similar journey.
• Journal Your Thoughts: Reflect on your relationships, goals, and values by writing down your thoughts. Ask yourself, “Am I being true to myself?” and consider ways to align your life more closely with your own needs.
• Make a Commitment to Yourself: Set intentions or write a personal “vow” to yourself, focusing on ways to prioritize your well-being and growth in the year ahead.
• Practice Saying “No”: Use the day to practice setting boundaries with others, allowing yourself the freedom to focus on what’s important to you.

Why is Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag Important?

Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag is important because it reminds individuals of the power and importance of self-loyalty. While people are often taught to prioritize relationships and responsibilities, Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag encourages a focus on self-care and self-reflection, emphasizing that true happiness begins with being true to oneself. The day encourages people to reflect on their values, foster a healthy self-relationship, and live authentically.

By taking time to reflect on personal goals and well-being, individuals can build confidence, create boundaries, and live more fulfilled lives. Trouw-Aan-Jezelf-Dag offers a much-needed pause from the pressures of daily obligations, encouraging people to see themselves as the most important commitment they can make.