It’s the summer of loving yourself! Not the type of pseudo-love in the form of dolled-up selfies or false fronts we put on about confidence. We’re talking about truly loving who you are, flaws and all, and celebrating the authentic and sincere you. How do we begin? Here are 17 small but real ways to begin celebrating yourself and your life this summer!
- Be kind to your body and exercise more often. This form of self care affects every part of your life, from your physical health to your mental health and confidence. Find a workout that you love like TITLE and aim to do it 3-5 times a week.
- Do the things you love to do. Love hiking? Painting? Singing? Then do it, often. Your hobbies bring you in tune to your true passions and allow you to express your creativity where work sometimes cannot.
- Dance weird. That old saying, “Dance like no one is watching,” is so true. Dance in your living room, with your friends, or at a party without any apologies and love every second of it!
- Stop comparing yourself to others. This type of self-hate has no place in your life from now on! You are you for a reason, so stop trying to look and act like others.
- Get rid of all of the negative (this includes people). Negativity breeds negativity. Surrounding yourself with positive people and experiences is one of the most important ways to love yourself.
- Forgive the past and yourself. Holding on to past mistakes or heartbreak can cloud your happiness in the present. Learn to let go of the past so you can learn to be content with who you are today.
- Take a healthy risk. When was the last time you did something spontaneous like scuba diving or trying a new food? Taking risks keeps life fresh and helps you realize how fun you are!
- Laugh out loud. We’re talking about from-the-belly laughter, the kind that makes you snort and cry. Watch your favorite funny movie or get together with friends and tell old stories and truly let it out.
- Don’t be so serious all the time. There’s a time and place for seriousness, but when you don’t need to be, allow yourself to smile and not take life so seriously, especially over matters like work and money.
- Be grateful and appreciate your life. Waking up every morning and simply saything “thanks” for another day helps get you on the right track to loving the life you have.
- Stop complaining to yourself and to others. Complaining, especially about things you cannot change, never solves anything. Focus on what is good and positive in your life daily.
- Get outside more often. Being in nature, even if it’s just a simple walk with your dog, helps to reset your batteries and helps you appreciate life’s simple pleasures.
- Travel somewhere you’ve never been. An exciting day trip to somewhere you’ve never been helps you realize all that this world has to offer. Stepping outside of your routine is good for your soul.
- Smile. Need we say more?
- Stop judging others. You’d never want someone to judge your choices or appearance, so why do it to others? Judging is usually a reflection on your own confidence, so avoid it altogether.
- Make home comfy and have a party every day. Light a candle, turn up the music and cook really great food every day at home. Small improvements in your atmosphere helps to bring out the fun vibes in life.
- Wake up earlier. Give yourself some time each morning to do what you love, like drinking a cup of coffee, taking a walk or reading the news. Rushing around in the morning only adds to your unhappiness each day.