How do you approach a friend beating themselves over an unsuccessful relationship or academic failure? Do you put them down with more blame and criticism? No, you probably talk compassionately and tell them not to be so hard on themselves. But when you’re going through similar struggles, why do you fail to show yourself the same kindness?
Self-love isn’t an indulgent trend of the moment, it’s necessary for your confidence and self-esteem. Here’s how you can start loving yourself unconditionally.
Start with positive affirmation
Starting your day with positive affirmations can do wonders for your confidence, positivity, and self-esteem. Look in the mirror and say phrases that make you feel empowered, beautiful, and strong. Something as simple as repeating affirmations can help you develop a healthier relationship with yourself.
Stop comparing yourself
We all are guilty of comparing ourselves to unrealistic standards imposed by society. Do you find yourself desiring a lifestyle or looks of strangers on Instagram? This can be a source of constant unhappiness in your life. Stop comparing your everyday life with someone’s highlight reel! If looking at a certain profile makes you feel bad about yourself, unfollow them.
Look after your mental well-being
The stress of work or personal life can push you to develop a negative outlook on life. Give your mind a break by talking to someone about your struggles or meditating. Looking after your mental health is crucial for your overall well being.
Take care of physical health
Nothing says self-love than investing time and energy into taking care of your physical health. Make sure you are eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly. Such a lifestyle will make you feel good from inside out.
Build self-esteem
There are a lot of factors that can damage your self-esteem. You can get a psychic love reading to discover what’s troubling you and progress towards rebuilding self-esteem.
Treat yourself
Treat yourself for a minor accomplishment and even for no reason at all. Go out on a spa retreat or splurge on expensive perfume. You buy gifts for your loved ones, so why not do the same for yourself?
Keep a positive circle
The people who surround you have a huge impact on how you feel about yourself. If your close circle consists of friends who are overly critical, that’s not the best. Keep the company that makes you feel loved, supported, and valued. And at the same time, know when it’s time to cut ties with a toxic person.
Appreciate the good
Everyone has certain attributes that they don’t like about themselves. But the existence of bad doesn’t imply the absence of good. Surely, there are things that you love about yourself. Recognise these qualities and traits and start appreciating them.
Learn to say no
Not everyone has your best intentions at heart. Sometimes, it’s okay or even necessary to put yourself first. Whether you cannot accept additional work or you’re too exhausted to attend a gathering, learn to say no.
Take out me-time
Juggling professional and social life can take up all your time. Every day, take out some time just for yourself. Use your ‘me-time’ to read a book, catch-up on a TV show, or enjoy any leisure activity.
Leave the past behind
We’ve all done regretful things in the past. That doesn’t mean you’re not worthy of your own forgiveness. Acknowledge your mistakes, learn from them, and try to do better in the future. Don’t let your past control you, forgive yourself.
The bottom line
Life will always throw challenges in your direction. But self-love gives you the confidence to come out of anything stronger. We hope this post inspires you to practice self-love every day.
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Image credit: Freepik
Peter Wallace has been an advocate for mental health awareness for years. He holds a master’s degree in counselling from the University of Edinburgh.
