7 Ways To Practice Self-Love

Perhaps one of the greatest struggles we all face is the struggle to accept and love ourselves despite our many flaws. Depending on where you are in your personal journey, practicing self-love can be challenging, especially when you feel like you don’t deserve it. But no matter what you have done, what mistakes you have made, or what has happened to you, I want you to know that you deserve to be loved. And the first and most important person you need love from is yourself. Though the path to self-love may look a little different for everyone, adding these 7 ways to practice self-love to your routine will help you push through your limiting beliefs to live your best life.

7 Ways To Practice Self-Love

Practicing self-love doesn’t make you selfish or a narcissist. When you love yourself, you respect yourself and your needs and make yourself a priority. And the more you love yourself, the better you’ll take care of yourself. That impacts your health, self-esteem, self-confidence, success, and happiness. Experiencing true self-love will shift your mindset and give you the fuel you need to confidently step into the person you are meant to be and live the life you are meant to live. Love yourself more each day by incorporating these tips into your daily life.

1. Go easy on yourself

Why is it easier to be kind and understanding to everyone other than yourself? Being too hard on yourself can be very damaging to your self-esteem. It can leave you feeling worthless, depressed, or anxious. While it is normal to criticize yourself, don’t let negative thoughts spiral out of control. Instead, practice positive self-talk by acknowledging you are worthy of love and compassion even when you fall short. Treat yourself with the same kindness and grace you extend to friends, families, and loved ones in your life.

2. Surround yourself with people who make you feel good

Toxic people suck up your time, your energy, and can negatively affect your mental health. They are manipulative, selfish, and love to keep you stuck exactly where you are. Avoid people who drag you down and make you feel bad about yourself or your circumstances. Whether it’s a friendship, romantic relationship, or a relationship with a family member, value yourself enough to remove toxic people from your life. Replace them with positive people who want to see you win.

3. Stop comparing yourself to others

It has been said that comparison is the thief of joy. Comparing yourself to others stops you from enjoying life and being completely comfortable with who you are. It robs you of happiness, gratitude, and fulfillment and can leave you feeling frustrated and anxious. And it doesn’t help to create the life you want. Instead of spending time comparing yourself to others, compare yourself to the person you used to be and appreciate how far you have come.

4. Forgive yourself

You’ve made a few mistakes. Who hasn’t? But dwelling on them won’t help anything. Learning how to move on is vital to your mental health and well-being. Own your mistakes, let go of the guilt, forgive yourself, and vow to do better next time.

5. Take better care of yourself

Taking better care of your mind and body is the ultimate form of self-love. I know it’s easier said than done but prioritizing your mental and physical health is essential to your overall well-being. Making time for exercise, rest, self-care, and eating healthy meals are all ways to show yourself some love. And when you take care of yourself, you’re better able to show up as your best self for your family, your friends, and in all aspects of your life.

6. Celebrate yourself

Stop waiting for others to recognize your worth and start celebrating your unique qualities, skills, abilities, and all the things that make you special. Start the habit of taking just a few minutes a day to recognize yourself for something awesome you did, a goal you achieved, or something you are grateful for and you will feel better about yourself and see yourself in a more positive light.

7. Find a good therapist

Depending on your past experiences, you may need help to undo the patterns that you’ve followed your whole life. A therapist can provide a non-judgmental space to help you break down barriers to uncover reasons why it is difficult for you to practice self-love. 

Self-love is a lifelong journey. Like any relationship, practicing self-love takes time, patience, and commitment. Believe that you deserve love from yourself and those in your life. And remember that when you love yourself, your life will love you back.

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