We live in a world that is fast paced and sometimes, very unforgiving. We spend so much time fighting to keep up with deadlines, running around after others, trying to keep those around us happy, that we sometimes forget about the most important person in our lives. Ourselves!
As human beings, we’re often our own worst critics, full of self-deprivation and regrets of bad decisions we once made or decisions we didn’t make, like that time you should have said yes to that potentially career changing path, or that time you should have invested in that business and you didn’t. (For information on investments check out this website.) Well, I’m here to tell you that you shouldn’t be so hard on yourself and that we all need to be a little kinder to ourselves and make self-care a huge priority.
Here we’ve rounded up 4 ways you can be kinder to yourself – starting today!
1. Make some time for yourself
You have a million and one tasks to complete as well as deadlines to hit and your family and friends to keep happy. But what about your happiness? In this world of pleasing others, you need to carve out some time for yourself during your day and fill it with something that you enjoy doing – painting, drawing, reading that book you’ve never finished, sweating it out in the gym, listening to music – whatever it is that makes you happy. You need to find some time to indulge your pleasures every single day. And don’t feel guilty!
2. Give yourself some R&R
Reward and recognition. We’re so quick to recognise the success of others and to applaud them for their hard work. But what about your own achievements? No matter how small, if you’ve done something that’s made you feel good then take some time to dwell on it. Nailed that parallel park? Good for you! Managed to complete all your work ahead of schedule? Treat yourself to a slice of cake as a well done!
3. Look after yourself
We all lead such busy lives. We very rarely get the time to look after ourselves! The biggest step in being kinder to yourself is to look after your body and mind. So, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, take supplements, get enough sleep and make sure you’re filling your plate with plenty of fruits and veggies. Keep yourself well groomed (spoil yourself at the salon) and you’ll feel like you can take on anything!
4. Soothe yourself
Had a bad day? You’re not alone. But instead of just pushing away those feelings of despair and upset and hoping for a better day tomorrow, introduce yourself to a little TLC and be kinder to yourself. Have an extra-long soak in the bath with some essential oils, exfoliate your skin and cover yourself in a thick, indulgent moisturiser, light some candles and listen to your favourite songs, spoil yourself with a slice of cake, a cup of tea and a good book.
Do whatever makes you feel better! You deserve it.
