It may be a new year, but self-love is always in vogue. If one of your goals is to appreciate yourself more, then you’ve come to the right place. These 8 simple ways to love yourself will get you feeling more comfortable in your own skin than ever before.

1. Fit in some self-care everyday

Self-care isn’t a once-a-month gig. To properly cultivate a sense of equilibrium and inner wellbeing, you need to dedicate at least 30 minutes per day to taking care of number one.

You weren’t born to serve others, and the least you deserve is half an hour of uninterrupted me-time to get you ready for the next day. What you do to relax is entirely up to you. some people adore a long bath, while others prefer a good book or TV series.

2. Take yourself on a solo break

For many people, even the act of sitting in a café and having lunch alone is a big step. It can take some serious willpower to forget about what other people think of you, and to just luxuriate in being alone. Once you do, though, it’s the most freeing thing in the world.

When you’ve graduated from the solo café trip, you might consider taking yourself further afield. When’s the last time you travelled by yourself? Maybe it’s time to do that European walking tour you’ve always dreamed about.

3. Believe that you can, and you will

People who grab opportunities, take chances, and doggedly pursue their ambitions truly succeed in life. They don’t always win, but they never shy away from fighting for what they want. This kind of determination nurtures the soul just as much as any pampering night.

Take inspiration from the women you know who thrive in typically male-dominated sectors or industries. Determined women have risen to the top ranks of trucking companies, and have become CEO of a law firm. These ladies needed self-belief to get where they are, and set a fantastic example for the rest of us.

4. Stop putting yourself down

Humility is a virtue. When you’re modest to the point of actually denying your talents and achievements, however, self-destruction can ensue. Enjoy celebrating your wins! That new promotion or personal triumph needs recognition – most of all, by you.

5. Figure out the kind of exercise you actually enjoy

Think back to the types of activities you enjoyed as a kid, and determine the type of exercise which will make youhappy. There are so many inside-out benefits to getting active!

6. Don’t compare yourself to others

There’s no better testament to the phrase “comparison is the thief of joy” than social media. Although these platforms were created to better connect us with others, they’ve actually turned out to be detrimental to our self-esteem and wellbeing. Consider whether it may be time to take a break from comparing yourself to thousands of curated social media platforms.

7. Treat others as you would treat yourself

This doesn’t mean whitewashing your own flaws, but accepting them as a part of you,along with the good.

Be objective in your relationship with yourself so that you don’t get lost in the mire of self-loathing. Forgive your past mistakes, and cultivate a sense of positivity about the future. Perhaps most of all, become your own best friend.

8. Make your life a story

Committing the daily events of your life to pen and paper is a way to value your personal narrative. Writing in a journal can be a fantastic way to step back and reflect. What’s making you happy? Alternatively, are there parts of your life you need to change?

About the Author:

Harper is an adventurer, freelance creative writer and Japanese Anime geek. She loves nothing more than long bubble baths, unplanned getaways with her partner, Max, or kisses from their furry babies! You can visit her personal blog here– be sure to come say hi!