In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to overlook the importance of appreciating yourself. Yet, recognizing your own worth and accomplishments is crucial for overall well-being and confidence. In this short guide, we'll explore some simple yet powerful ways to appreciate yourself.
Appreciating yourself means recognizing and valuing the good things about who you are. It's like giving yourself a pat on the back for being unique, kind, and capable. Just like when you tell a friend they did a great job, you can do the same for yourself! It's important because it helps you feel good about who you are, and boosts your confidence. So go ahead, celebrate the amazing person that is you!
Here are some easy steps on how to cultivate the art of self - appreciation.
I hope you're sitting down because it's time for a little heart-to-heart about the most awesome person in the room. First thing you do in the morning, when you really don't want to get up , but have to...go to the bathroom, look at the mirror and feel like Snow White of XXI century! Look at yourself and say out loud:
Mirror, Mirror on the wall, who's the Coolest of Them All?
Mirror response (Let's start with the basics): YOU. You're so cool that even cucumbers envy your chill.
If you have a problem to jump straight to this kind of vibe - task for tonight: watch a comedy featuring Amy Schumer "I feel pretty"...that will open your mind, heart and, BTW, will roll you on the floor with laughter. This light comedy can be a great inspiration for you – and its applicable to women or men.
As most of the time we criticize ourselves, we don't recognize our achievements and do not give credit to ourselves. Pity. How to begin the new YOU? Where to start with change? Well, in the film, Amy shows that you can really feel totally happy and appreciate YOURSELF as you really are, without lies and pretence.
To help achieve the upper level of self- appreciation, pick 2-3 practices from those I have listed below. Start with those which resonate the most with you, and stick with them for 3 weeks. Be tough, no excuses! Then write down your insights as you notice any changes in your emotional condition.
Acknowledge Your Achievements:
Just before going to sleep, take a moment to reflect on your accomplishments, big or small, in the past day. They could be personal, professional, or even a hobby you've been pursuing. Write them down and recognize the effort you put in and the progress you've made. (this is my number ONE!)
Practice Self-Compassion:
When you have a difficult moment - treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a close friend. Understand that everyone makes mistakes and experiences setbacks. It's a part of being human. Write down a short supportive note to yourself like you would write it to your friend.
Celebrate Your Strengths:
Identify your strengths and talents. Whether it's your creativity, resilience, or problem-solving skills, appreciate what makes you unique. Write them down on a piece of paper (or in a note in your cell phone) , carry that note with you all the time and when you doubt yourself, reach for it.
Set Realistic Goals:
Setting achievable goals provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Celebrate your progress along the way, and don't be too hard on yourself if things don't always go as planned.
Practice Self-Care:
Taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being is a powerful way to show appreciation for yourself. It can be as simple as getting enough sleep, eating nourishing meals, or engaging in activities that bring you joy.
Maintain a Gratitude Journal:
Regularly jot down things you're grateful for. This practice helps to shift your focus towards positivity, and can help you recognize your own value in the grand scheme of things (this is my number TWO!)
Learn from Challenges:
Instead of dwelling on failures, view them as learning experiences. Understand that they're a natural part of growth and development. Appreciate yourself for having the courage to face challenges head-on.
Surround Yourself with Positivity:
Spend time with people who uplift and support you. Surrounding yourself with positivity can reinforce your self-worth and help you see the value you bring to relationships.
Practice Mindfulness:
Engage in mindfulness exercises to stay present and fully appreciate each moment. This can help you become more attuned to your own thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Conclusion:
Remember, self-appreciation is not about arrogance or self-centeredness. It's about recognizing your own value and treating yourself with the kindness and respect you deserve. By incorporating these simple practices into your life, you'll find that appreciating yourself becomes a natural and empowering part of your daily routine.