Love Yourself — 8 Easy Steps. Often during conversations, I catch…
By: Nancy Shimmy
Tags: Love Yourself, Healing, Self Improvement, Wellness, Health

Often during conversations, I catch people putting themselves down criticizing themselves. People in general seem to believe that to love “yourself” is a bad thing.

Many of us, including myself, have lived through mental issues such as anxiety and depression. We learned the hard way that to “love yourself” is absolutely crucial to one’s health.

1. Spend Time With Yourself

Having a few days to be by yourself is a good thing. Learn to enjoy your own company and having fun on your own. Learn to feel confident in doing so. Become comfortable with your own thoughts. You could go for a walk, have a picnic at the park, read a book at the coffee shop or library, or maybe even go to the movies by yourself. If you can’t be comfortable spending time with yourself, how can you love yourself?

2. Give Yourself A Break

Try and save 20–30 minutes of “you” time. This is a break in your day where you can just breath and completely relax. Take this moment to step away from everything and into your own inner space. Take a bubble bath by candle light, curl up in your favorite chair with a good book, go sit outside in the sun, meditate, etc. Do a little something that will rejuvenate you, recharging your batteries.

3. Go On Adventures

Travelling is a great way to live new experiences and see new things. It can be a weekend trip out of the province (or state if in the US), or even just a day trip. Even better, if you can, make a point to save money each year for a trip out of the country. When travelling we learn about other cultures, other people and other way of life. We see that a smile is the same no matter where we go. If you can travel on your own, do it. I am certain that you will learn more about who you are while gaining confidence and appreciating yourself.

4. Forgive Yourself

The best way to heal is to let go of the past. Let go of the baggage. We tend to hold on to the past, to our regrets, and to our mistakes. Look back on your mistakes, accept what happened and accept that you made those choices. The past cannot be changed and no longer serves you. It will only hold you back. Forget the past. Forgive yourself. Move on. You are who you are because of this past. Love and accept yourself.

5. Be Kind To Yourself

We can be hard on ourselves. We compare ourselves others. We also seem to be our own worst critics. Be aware of your self-talk and give yourself some slack. Talk to yourself the way you would talk to someone you love. There is only one you and you are a gift to this world. Know that you are special and amazing. Embrace your vulnerabilities, quirkiness and all. You are perfect just the way you are. Just be “you”. Love yourself for who you are, as you are. And while you’re at it, see who you surround yourself with. Separate yourself from toxic people and situations. Find your tribe. Surround yourself with people that share your values. People that love and respect you for who you are.

“Talk to yourself the way you would talk to someone you love” Brené Brown

6. Learn To Say No

You first need to take care of yourself in order to be able to take care of others. Sometimes we tend to do so much for others and loose ourselves in the process. We end up tired and overwhelmed. Remember to take time for yourself and to say no. Which leads me to the obvious one…

7. Take Care Of Yourself

This should be obvious but it isn’t. Have you ever said: ” I am giving my 110%” ? That my friend is impossible. You cannot give more than what you have, and all you have is 100%, whatever that my be at that moment. Don’t give it all away because then you will have nothing left for yourself. It’s also important to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Your body gets used the schedule and it makes it easier to go to sleep. Eat a healthy and clean diet. You will have more mental and physical energy.

8. Write It Out

At the end of the day, write down your thoughts and feelings. Writing is like therapy and will help clear your head before going to sleep. It will help you deal with, and make sense of, emotions and thoughts you have had during the day. Clearing your head and making room for all new and positives thoughts to flow in.

Conclusion

If there is one thing I want you to take away from all of this is that you are important. You matter in this world. You are not just another human being on the planet. You are a UNIQUE spiritual being having a human experience on this planet. Unique as in, there is only ONE you. You are a gift to this universe. Share the best of yourself with the rest of the world. The world needs the gift that is “you”.

Yours in health, happiness, and success,

Nancy Shimmy