The idea of circular love is that love starts with you, then you are able to give it and then receive it. The essential part is that you are the source of the love.
The idea is that if you practice self love and self care, you will then have a full and overflowing source of love. This overflowing source of love can then be shared generously and freely with others. Then as part of continual process, you also need to be able to accept love as well. However, in a state of fullness, you are no longer dependent upon someone else for love, because you have enough love yourself. So any additional love you receive is just bonus!