How do we nurture any relationship? We care about that person and help them through the challenging times. We love them. Well, apply this same mindset to yourself. Remember, the person you spend the most time with in a day is you, so it makes sense to take extra care with that relationship. The most important thing is loving yourself and listening to yourself – this goes for your body, your personality, your aspirations, everything! Self-confidence is imperative to a good relationship with yourself.
Recognise the situation you are in and address solutions to the possible scenarios you are worried about
Stress and anxiety are some of the most important things to combat as these can be the most damaging to you both psychologically and physically. If your body is telling you that you are stressed then address the situation, don't avoid it. Avoidance perpetuates anxiety. Recognise the situation you are in and address solutions to the possible scenarios you are worried about. If the stress is work-related, set a cut-off time for working to keep some time for yourself to do what you enjoy. If you must work late, create a calming environment with candles, warm lighting, and gentle music to help keep your mind at ease as you work.
I find it beneficial to set a positive intention for the day when I get ready as well, such as 'today I will be confident'. Telling yourself something like this sets it as a subconscious goal in your mind and so increases the likelihood of acting out your intention. Even better, carry something with you that, when you touch it, reminds you of this intention. This can be anything, though I am secretly a crystal lover, so this works best for me as they are small and nice to look at but choose anything that you would associate with your intention – colours tend to be good reminders.
Health and fitness is another key factor – care for your body as this will care for your mind, making you less fatigued and stressed. Don't force strenuous exercise on yourself if this is not enjoyable for you but try a few different things before you give it up completely as it boosts serotonin and helps train your body to regulate energy release. Even just a walk in the fresh air can be incredibly beneficial to you. Don’t give up crisps and chocolate completely – you deserve a treat every so often. But also make sure to eat a balanced diet and plenty of fruit and vegetables, and DO NOT dip out on the carbs – these are your main energy source!
Last but certainly not least is good sleep hygiene. Give yourself a regular wake-up time and make sure you are going to sleep with enough time to get your eight hours in. It can take up to two months to regulate your sleep cycle so stick with it. Don't change the time that you get up as this makes you more tired throughout the day. As someone who needs sound on to go to sleep to distract my brain, I can’t criticise being on a screen before bed, but don’t use social media and try to put a night filter on.
Follow these tips and hopefully, you will find that you are happier with yourself. Don't get upset if you have a down day or two. It is normal to feel like this sometimes and, as I said, listen to yourself and care for yourself when it is needed. The world is a beautiful place that produces beautiful things like you. Go out and enjoy it!