5 Simple Ways to Be Kind to Yourself
We spend so much time worrying about paying the bills, doing our jobs well, and helping our loved ones that sometimes we neglect to take care of ourselves. Still taking the time to take care of yourself will not only make you feel happier but also improve your life in every area. After all, if you feel good, you can share that positive energy with everyone around you, whether at home, at work, or even with the stranger sitting next to you on the bus.
1. START THE DAY WITH SELF-AFFIRMATIONS
Sometimes we can be our toughest critic, and the voice inside our heads reminds us that we’re not good enough. Taking the time to repeat good things about ourselves can reverse that cycle. Become your best supporter with self-affirmations. Begin each day by acknowledging five positive qualities about yourself or achievements that you feel proud of accomplishing. You can look yourself in the mirror and say them out loud or even write them down every morning. This exercise will start the day on a positive note by reminding you of your best qualities while also inspiring the confidence to achieve your goals.
2. TREAT YOURSELF TO A DAY OF PAMPERING
Most of us spend so much time trying to juggle work, our social life, and chores that we barely have time to focus on our own well-being. Whether you do it once every week or even once a month, make sure to set aside a day completely devoted to yourself… just because! Take the day to do your favorite activity like going for a long walk, indulging in a spa treatment, cooking your favorite food, taking a long bath, or sitting in a park reading a good book. These type of self-care remedies will have you feeling fresh and positive.
3. REWARD YOURSELF FOR GETTING THINGS DONE
In a fast-paced world, our “To-Do” list seems never-ending. Give yourself credit for getting things done, whether you finally graduated school, managed to tackle that DIY project, lost those last 5 pounds, or successfully cooked that recipe you found online. Whatever it may be, make sure to reward yourself for your hard work. That could mean taking a day off from work, toasting yourself to a glass of wine, or simply doing something you enjoy. After all, you deserve to feel good for your achievements.
4. LET GO OF PAST MISTAKES
Everyone makes mistakes, but sometimes we can dwell on the past too much. Instead of beating yourself up, remember that no one is perfect. Find a way to forgive yourself. If it helps, make amends with those you may have hurt. After all, life is about learning lessons and those mistakes give us an opportunity to grow into better people.
5. RESPECT YOUR BODY
Being kind to yourself means taking good care of your health. Make sure you get enough sleep each night, eat healthy foods, and stay active. If you feel tired or sick, take the time to get enough rest and recover. You’ll feel better mentally by taking good care of your physical health.
By Allison Michelle Dienstman
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Originally published at www.goodnet.org.
