When I think of self-love, I think of self-acceptance, confidence, self-esteem, self-assertion, self-respect, and self-image… (Should I go on? Because honestly, I could!). These are topics that I’m deeply passionate about, and they deserve to be explored in greater depth.
So, I took a moment to reflect on what I have personally implemented in my daily life to love myself just a little more (because let’s be real, I’m still far from the ultimate "self-love bliss"). And after some thought, I came up with four simple yet powerful habits that have naturally found their place in my everyday routine.
In this post, you’ll discover:
1️⃣ Letting go of comparison to cultivate self-love
2️⃣ Acknowledging your own achievements
3️⃣ Speaking to yourself like you would to your best friend
4️⃣ Making time for yourself
Let’s dive in!
1. Letting Go of Comparison to Cultivate Self-Love
Easier said than done, right? In reality, we often compare ourselves to others—sometimes without even realising it.
It could be your colleague sharing how her husband surprised her with a fancy dinner last night, or your neighbor who seems to flawlessly juggle four kids, a thriving 3D home-building business, triathlon training, and still manages to have perfect hair and manicured nails. But here’s the thing: we only see what people choose to show us.
We don’t know their struggles, their self-doubts, or the insecurities they battle behind closed doors. Meanwhile, we are acutely aware of our own flaws, which makes comparison feel even harsher.
Instead of comparing and feeling inadequate, shift your mindset. Admire, don’t compare. Feeling inspired by someone’s determination or talent? Let that energy motivate you rather than diminish your own worth. Take what inspires you and turn it into a challenge for yourself, not a competition with others.
2. Acknowledging Your Own Achievements
Since the moment we were born, we’ve accomplished so many things—but we tend to downplay our successes or consider them insignificant.
Take a moment and list some of your personal achievements. Start with one or two, and keep adding to the list daily.
It could be:
✅ “I got my driver’s license.”
✅ “I completed that work project on time and did it well.”
✅ “I finally expressed my feelings to a friend.”
These might seem small, but they matter. Celebrate what you’ve accomplished, even if it feels ordinary. You have overcome challenges before, and you will continue to do so.
Be proud of yourself!
3. Speaking to Yourself Like You Would to Your Best Friend
Would you ever tell your best friend, “You’re terrible at this. You’ll never be good enough.”? Of course not! But somehow, we let our inner dialogue sound this cruel.
I’ve caught myself saying things like: “You’re so bad at this. You messed up again. You have no talent.” Ouch. That’s not the kind of encouragement anyone needs.
Instead, imagine speaking to yourself as you would to your best friend:
💬 “This project isn’t turning out how you envisioned, but maybe it’s just not your style. You have the skills to make it work in a way that feels authentic to you. Look at how well you handled your last project!”
See how different that feels? Self-love means showing yourself the same kindness, patience, and encouragement that you offer others.
4. Making Time for Yourself
We often put ourselves last on the priority list—work, kids, relationships, responsibilities come first, and “me time” gets pushed aside. But here’s the truth: if you don’t take care of yourself, no one else will do it for you.
Self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant. It can be: 🌿 Reading a book 🧘♀️ Meditating for 10 minutes 🌸 Gardening 💃 Dancing in your living room 📖 Journaling
The key is doing something for yourself and only for yourself—not for your partner, your friends, or your family, but for YOU. Even if it’s just 15 minutes a week, those moments are precious and will recharge your energy.
Because when you nourish yourself, you have more to give to the world.
Final Thoughts
Self-love isn’t a destination—it’s a practice, a habit, a way of life. And like anything else, it takes time and effort.
✨ Stop comparing yourself to others. ✨ Celebrate your achievements. ✨ Be kind to yourself. ✨ Make time for yourself.
💖 What small acts of self-love do you practice? Drop a comment and share your thoughts! I’d love to hear from you.
I wish us the best,
Cindy
Comments