Being kind to yourself is worth it and it matters even more when times are hard. When you are kind to yourself, you become more patient, more caring, more open to collaborating with others and more understanding. Less stress and worry can make wonders not only to yourself but also to others. Just imagine what happens when you are less stressed, less frustrated and more relaxed. Be kind to yourself and let your kindness grow and change the world around you.
1. Take one step at a time
When you start doing something new and want to do all at once, you can easily become overwhelmed by the task. Start slow. Take your time. Focus on this one small step ahead of you. And move forward.
2. Call a friend you haven’t seen for a while or arrange to have a video lunch or coffee meeting with a colleague
Forming good relationships with others: with family, friends, and the wider community are important for our mental health. It also helps you to build a sense of purpose and makes you feel better about yourself.
3. Sleep more
Sleep problems weaken our immune system and are linked to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.
4. Don’t beat yourself up
Look at yourself from a different perspective. When you’re having a bad day and you’re struggling with self-compassion, connect with your inner child and ask yourself: What do I need right now the most? Instead of criticising yourself, ask yourself what would make you feel better and remember that we are all human and we all make mistakes. Forgive yourself and learn from those moments of regret.
5. Get active
Find an activity that you enjoy. Go cycling, take a walk or maybe dance. Being active is not only great for your physical health and fitness but also improves your mental wellbeing, relieves pain and reduces emotional stress by helping your body release good hormones, endorphins. It also helps you raise your self-esteem, set goals and achieve them.
6. Appreciate yourself
Remember what you are proud of. Ask your friends to tell you one thing that they like about you. Self-esteem is important for our mental health. Value yourself.
7. Meditate
Find a few minutes to focus on yourself and relax. Meditation helps you reduce stress, depression and anxiety, it also helps you to sleep better.
These ways are a great beginning to become kinder to yourself and showing to life and other people that you value and love yourself. And then, your kindness to others will naturally follow.
