You’ve probably read dozens of articles on how to develop healthy relationships with others. However, we don’t see many articles that discuss how to work on improving your connection with yourself.
The irony is that no other relationship is as important to your health as your relationship with yourself. You may not realise it, but this relationship governs your entire life…
It influences how you manage relationships, interact with colleagues, deal with conflict and even sleep at night…and so much more.
Today, I’ll show you how improving your connection with yourself can make you a happier and more fulfilled person.
Let’s get started…….
So, how do you go about improving your relationship with yourself?
To begin, you must take your beliefs, feelings, and goals seriously. Then you must recognise that your flaws and your strengths are two sides of the same coin. They coexist to form the unique individual you are today.
It’s critical to remember that no one knows what it’s like to be you. This is why you must be your best friend. Learn to be compassionate to yourself and to others.
Begin with these five techniques to boost your self-esteem so that you are confident in yourself and believe that you are worthy of others’ respect.
#1: Recognise Your Likes and Dislikes
Self-acceptance is defined as knowing what you like and dislike.
It also implies that you do not alter your way of life or the way you do certain things just to please others. Allow yourself to be seen for who you are, flaws and all.
That can be difficult at times.
Our society teaches us that following the rules of others is the only way to fit in and be accepted.
Recognising that we are all unique requires accepting your uniqueness and learning to embrace it.
Understanding your likes and dislikes, as well as your strengths and is essential. Once you’ve identified those, you’ll be able to do more of what makes you happy.
#2: Be Kind To Yourself
We are sometimes our own worst enemies. We are merciless in our criticism, pricking and prodding at our perceived flaws.
Our weight is usually at the top of the list. But there are other things we obsess over including the shape of our bodies or the bags under our eyes.
For a change, why not try something new? Find one thing you like about yourself the next time you look in the mirror. Praise yourself and express your appreciation for it.
Now this may not be easy. In fact, you might not even think of anything to be thankful for at first
You are not alone, so don’t be surprised. Almost nine times out of ten, your gaze will be drawn to the aspects of yourself that you dislike.
But don’t be discouraged. You’ll be able to make a list of everything that makes you beautiful and unique with daily practise.
What about all the other things you dislike? Accept them as they are. They are still a part of what makes you the special and unique individual that you are.
#3: Pay Attention to Yourself
Pay attention to your gut instincts when something feels off. Even if it’s difficult, uncomfortable, or contradicts what others say.
Allow yourself to feel and become at ease with your emotions and beliefs. When you listen to your body and gut instincts, you will experience inner peace and a sense of belonging.
You’ll get better at understanding your body’s cues and signals after a while. Only then can you begin to strengthen your connection with yourself.
# 4: Create Good Habits
Developing healthy habits is an easy way to improve your relationship with yourself.
Your healthy habits can begin with when you first wake up in the morning and end when you go to bed at night.
These healthy habit practises could include any of the following:
- Journaling and/or a gratitude journal
- Make a list of positive affirmations to increase your self-worth.
- Regular exercise – this is essential.
- Plan healthy, well-balanced meals on a regular basis.
- Meditation should be done mindfully.
- Smile! It elevates your mood and relieves stress.
#5: Encourage Positive Behaviour
Many of us are all-or-nothing people. We decide to do something, and as soon as we begin to hit a tough patch , we call it quits and vice up!
Perfectionism can be a part of this. And depression can be caused by perfectionism. It traps you in a cycle of self-blame and negativity, which can lead to a dark and lonely place.
To break free from this toxic cycle, first accept that you are not perfect. You will make mistakes, and your day will not always go as planned. That’s fine!
Assume you set a goal of going to the gym for an hour five times per week. The first week goes as planned, but you miss a day (or two!) the second week.
You then have two options: just give up and cancel the entire event….. or continue where you left off. If you find that five days a week is too much by week three, reduce it. Instead of a full 60 minutes, try a half-hour.
This does not have to be limited to exercise. It also applies to your diet, sleep, and work objectives. Do the work while showing yourself some love and encouragement. Everything else will fall into place.
Conclusion
Having high self-esteem helps.
Good self-esteem enhances your sense of self. It’s one of the most effective ways to cultivate a positive relationship with yourself and, ultimately, with others.
Each of the five techniques aims to improve your relationship with yourself. That should be your top priority.
These techniques can boost your self-confidence and keep you grounded if you practise them on a daily basis. As a result, you can form a strong, balanced connection with yourself. Only then can you begin to live in accordance with your true self:)