When we are born, we have an abundance of self-confidence. We love life and we love ourselves. Unfortunately, over time we begin to compare ourselves to others or others tell us we aren’t good enough and we believe them. Self–love, one of the most important aspects of our well-being, disappears.
Self-love isn’t arrogance or conceit. It is being happy in our skin. It is understanding that we are perfect just the way we are. Self-love allows us to live with joy, compassion, and gratitude. When we love ourselves, our lives become richer.
You can love yourself again. Try these:
- Appreciate how special you are. No one else is like you. You bring a unique set of gifts to this world. No one else is like you. Embrace that!
- Use affirmations. I know that affirmations seem silly, but they work. How we talk to ourselves makes a difference. If you are always telling yourself you are fat, stupid, or a failure – you will be. Instead, talk to yourself like you would talk to your best friend. Say things like:
- I am beautiful
- I am smart
- I love how my hair looks
- My heart is open and I am willing to learn
- Do things you love to do. Make sure you every day to spend time on something that is important to you. It might be working out, going for walk, quilting, reading, or working in the shop. It doesn’t need to be long. It just needs to happen.
- When you find yourself saying negative things, stop. Period. Instead, speak kindly to yourself.
- Accept compliments graciously. A simple thank you works. When you accept a compliment, it is a gift to both you and the giver.
- Don’t compare yourself to others. We are each on our own journey. Our path and our purpose are different from others and that is ok.
- Forgive yourself. This might be the hardest of all these tips, but it is crucial to truly loving and accepting ourselves. We all make mistakes. Learn from them, let them go, and move on.