Being Kind to Yourself

Seven Ways to Show Self-Kindness

1. Invest in Yourself: Seriously! Make a date with yourself every day to spend some time doing something that lifts you up and helps you get in touch with your authentic self. You might choose to draw, journal, paint, knit, read, listen to music, go for a walk, etc. Whatever you choose, make sure it is something that brings you joy.
2. Appreciate Yourself: Take a couple of minutes in the morning or evening to tell yourself something you appreciate about yourself. Be sure to include the small things too — the things we often take for granted. Craft your appreciation into a mantra to begin or end your day: “I am a strong, caring woman who treats others with love and respect.” Accept yourself for who you are and learn to embrace your weaknesses and well as your strengths.
3. Be Your BFF: Whenever you stumble or something goes wrong, think about what a friend would say to support you and then talk to yourself in that same way. Allow your inner advocate to offer encouragement – just as you would offer to someone else in need.
4. Treat Yourself: Okay, so I’m not saying you should go on some crazy shopping spree, but every now and then treat yourself to something you really want. There is nothing wrong with giving yourself a gift for your birthday (just be sure to wrap it in pretty paper!)
5. Pep Rally: Whether for something good or bad, be your own cheerleader. If you accomplish something or overcome a challenge, celebrate it. If you fail or make a mistake, boost yourself with positive self-talk. Stop beating yourself up. Learn to forgive yourself for the bad things and recognize the good things.
6. I-Messages: These are simple, little messages you say to yourself that offer encouragement and acceptance at a moment’s notice. Examples include: ‘I am enough,’ ‘I am deserving,’ or ‘I am worthy.’ When you are having a stressful moment, take a few minutes to breathe and recite a few I-Messages to get back on track.
7. Sooth, Pamper and Have Fun: Take a hot bath (include candles, oils, and soft music). Indulge in a foot, hand, or scalp massage. Have a glass of wine, hot tea, or cocoa. Take a little bit of time for yourself doing something that helps you to relax and feel good – even if it’s dancing around in your underwear!

Everywhere you go and everything you do, YOU will always be there. You can be certain that the one person you will always have a relationship with is yourself.

Embracing self-kindness may be difficult at first. However, once you begin to see the improvements in your life and in your relationships, you will realize that showing self-kindness is one of the most beneficial gifts you can give to yourself.