How To Love Yourself: 20 Ways to Practice Self-love

Love Yourself. We all want to do that. But how? How to love yourself? 

We often hear the phrase “self-love,” but what does it mean, and how can you practice it?

In short, self-love is the act of caring for yourself. It’s nurturing yourself and treating your mind, spirit, and body with respect and care. Self-love is essential for a healthy life. Follow along as we look at 20 ways to practice self-love.

20 Ways To Love Yourself

Practice Self-Care Regularly

The most important act of self-care is to do it regularly. Taking care of yourself is not an option; it’s a necessity. Find your favorite acts of self-care and then repeat them often.

Set Boundaries and Prioritize Your Needs

Setting boundaries is often tough to do. It means you are respecting your limits and needs in life. For example, if you prefer to stay home on Friday night to rest after a long weekend, but a friend knocks on the door insisting you go out with them, a healthy response is to tell them no and not feel guilty about it. You know your needs better than anyone, and it’s okay to set healthy boundaries and stick with them.

Cultivate Self-Compassion

Sometimes, even the most compassionate person fails to be compassionate toward themselves. Remember to show yourself the same compassion you show others when you fail or feel inadequate. Don’t beat yourself up. Instead, comfort yourself with the things that make you feel cared for.

Celebrate Your Achievements, Big or Small

Be proud of yourself. Whether you earn your degree or get out of bed even though you are tired, celebrate your achievements as a form of self-love.

Surround Yourself With Positive Influences

You are who you surround yourself with. Eventually, the people you spend time with will rub off on you and help you form either a negative or positive attitude. Who are you spending time with? It may be time to find a new circle.

Forgive Yourself for Past Mistakes

We all make mistakes; sometimes, it’s easier to forgive others than forgive ourselves. However, that isn’t healthy. You deserve forgiveness from yourself, too.

Prioritize Self-Reflection and Personal Growth

Self-reflection is the act of thinking about how you are handling things in life, such as your emotions, reactions, and other behaviors. Are you happy with those areas, or do they need improvement? Reflect and make any necessary changes to help you continue to grow.

Embrace Your Uniqueness and Individuality

You are fabulously unique, and you must embrace it. If everyone were the same, life would be quite boring. Get to know yourself and fall in love with every unique quirk.

Engage in Activities That Bring You Joy

What brings you joy? Are you happiest in a group setting, or do you need much alone time to recharge? Does traveling make you happy, or do you prefer a weekend locked in at home under the covers? Whatever brings you joy, do it as often as possible.

Nourish Your Body With Healthy Food and Exercise

One way we can show ourselves self-love is to care for our bodies with exercise and healthy eating. It’s okay to treat yourself now and then; however, consider some goals to help you eat as healthy as possible. And don’t forget to exercise daily. Even a walk around the block is better than nothing.

Develop a Positive Self-Talk Habit

Did you know that you talk to yourself? We all do it without even realizing it. Your inner voice says a lot throughout the day, and you have the power to control it. Switch off the negative thoughts and create a positive self-talk habit.

Accept Compliments and Acknowledge Your Worth

We all know those people who can’t accept a compliment. Instead, they respond with something negative. Is that you? If so, the next time someone compliments you, try to simply say, “Thank you.” Doing so acknowledges your worth to yourself.

Learn To Say No Without Guilt

As mentioned before, boundaries are essential for a healthy life. Set your boundaries and learn to say no without feeling guilty about it. The fact is most people will move on quickly after you say no.

Establish and Pursue Personal Goals

Goals are a way of saying we believe in ourselves. If you set a goal, you should intend to reach it. Set short-term and long-term goals and plan the necessary steps to get you there.

Disconnect From Negativity, Both Online and Offline

Social media can be destructive when you are bombarded with negative thoughts and ideas daily. Besides the online presence of negativity, you may also experience your share of it at the office or even at home. Do what you can to avoid negative people and ideas, as negativity can make you feel anxious and sad.

Practice Mindfulness and Live in the Present Moment

Mindfulness is the practice of being aware of our surroundings, which helps us be in the moment. You can work at being in the moment by avoiding screens when possible, walking in nature, or journaling. Practicing meditation each morning and evening is a great way to set your mind to mindfulness.

Express Gratitude for What You Have

There will always be things you want in life that you don’t have. Still, what do you have now? It’s important to think about all that you have and feel thankful for it.

Engage in Hobbies and Interests That Fulfill You

When was the last time you allowed yourself to enjoy a hobby that fulfills you? Maybe it’s time to take up that old hobby again or discover a new one. Hobbies are an excellent way to help us unplug and be in the moment.

Seek Professional Support When Needed

Sometimes, it’s hard to get out of a dark place. When that happens, never feel ashamed to seek professional help for the sake of your mental health. Therapists or an online support group are there for you when you need encouragement or help. Love yourself enough to want to get back on track.

Accept and Love Yourself Unconditionally

Everyone is different. Try hard to accept yourself just as you are — flaws and all. Love yourself unconditionally, and you won’t need affirmation from others.

Read More:

• Living Your Best Life: 16 Practical Tips To Live Your Best Life 
• How To Pamper Yourself (Without Spending a Lot of Money)