Taking care of your relationship with yourself

Your relationship with yourself sets the tone for every other relationship you have.

Our primary relationship in life is with ourselves.

We are the one and only constant in our lives. We are the only one that is there for absolutely everything we experience. Why, then, are we often-times our own worst critic? What can we do to change our relationship with ourselves?

Is it easier for you to see and appreciate qualities that others have than realizing your own? I think many people find it easier to admire qualities others possess. I have found that the qualities I appreciate the most in others are the ones I strongly desire to have.

I have always been drawn to people who seem to effortlessly be themselves; authentically and unapologetically.

That is what I have always longed to be. Now that my relationship with myself is better, I am moving closer to that every day. Somewhere deep inside, I knew I came here to express and share who I am; that’s why I was drawn to others with that open nature.

Look at the things in others that you appreciate and uncover those aspects in yourself.

They hold clues to what you came here to express and share with the world. As we learn to acknowledge and appreciate our gifts, we naturally begin to share them.

Quiet that critical voice and replace it with praise for something you do well. This can be challenging, but I assure you it can become your normal with enough practice.

Take a few minutes at the end of the day to list a few things that you like about yourself.

Be as gentle and kind to yourself as you would be to a loved one or best friend. Talk to yourself the way you talk to them.

Encourage yourself like you encourage others. Become your own biggest supporter.

If you find it too challenging to change your relationship with yourself, try starting out because you want to cultivate deeper relationships with others. Sometimes we find it harder to make changes for ourselves than doing it for others. Part of my motivation to change was wanting more meaningful relationships. It was easier for me to do things for others than for myself. It didn’t take long to see the benefits for myself as well.

When we take the time to see ourselves the way we see those we love and admire, we become our own best friend and supporter on our life’s journey. Who better to count on than you?!