In a world where we are constantly bombarded by messages of how society feels we should look, think, and act, it is only natural that our self-esteem suffers. On the opposite end of that spectrum, there are others who are trying to promote self-love, body positivity, and mental wellness as priorities. For some of us, though, the idea of fully loving ourselves seems to be too big of a feat.
However, that does not mean it’s impossible. We can follow some simple steps to help this task become more manageable and may, in turn, be more effective. Here are eight tips on how to start loving yourself:
1. Use words of affirmation.
Loving yourself starts with beginning to think you are worthy of good things. While you do not have to love your whole self to do this, start each day off reciting positive things about yourself. For example, tell yourself, “I am intelligent. I am enough. I am loved.” This can have positive impacts on your mental processes.
2. Create gratitude lists.
When we find things each day to be grateful for, we find a more positive outlook on things. Start by listing at least three things in your life that you’re grateful for. When we find things we are thankful for, it reaffirms that we deserve them, too.
3. Practice self-care.
Prioritizing our own well-being and doing things we enjoy can affirm our need for self-care. Whether it’s using face masks, finding time to craft, or taking a bubble bath, it’s important to engage in your hobbies. These actions help solidify that taking care of ourselves is just as important as taking care of any other task on our to-do lists.
4 . Move your body.
A body in motion stays in motion, as they say. When we move our muscles, it makes us feel good. There are mental benefits as well: An article from the National Library of Medicine states that “Exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and negative mood and by improving self-esteem and cognitive function. Additionally, exercise can also alleviate symptoms such as low self-esteem and social withdrawal.”
5. Try something new.
I have a friend who often says if we’re not learning, we’re not growing. At any point in our lives, we can find new interests, but the only way to do so is by exploring different things. Try cooking a different kind of cuisine, taking a crafting class, or reading a different genre of a book than you normally do. Who knows? You may find something you really enjoy.
6. Lean into your support system.
Your friends and family are in your life because they love you! If you feel low or experience self-esteem issues, tell them. They will support you, lift you up, and encourage you.
7. Assess your needs.
Have you tended to all your basic needs? Are you eating well? Do you get enough sleep? If our body is deprived in some way, our mental faculties suffer. Because of this, ensure you’re getting everything you need. If you’re not, put immediate plans in action to rectify the situation as soon as possible.
8. Unplug
As mentioned earlier, we are constantly bombarded with society’s expectations of who we should be. Sometimes, stepping away from social media, or taking a look at the pages we follow and their impacts on us, can help us to regain a healthier perspective.
You are worthy of love, deserve good things, and are enough. After all, we know Rome (nor your self-esteem) was built in a day, but one day at a time. By partaking in these simple tips, you can get closer to where you want to be.
Do you have something you like to do to boost self-esteem? Let us know in the comments below!
Image by Denise Husted from Pixabay
