8 simple and practical steps to cultivate self-love

Self-love is probably one of the most misunderstood words of the 21st century. Needless to say, it is often mistaken for selfish indulgence, ego, or arrogance. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines self-love as ‘love of self’.

It is described in nuanced terms such as ‘an appreciation of one's own worth or virtue’, or ‘proper regard for and attention to one's own happiness or well-being’, or ‘inflated love of or pride in oneself’. Unfortunately, in the pursuit of the first two, many unknowingly slip into the third category. True self-love is not that complicated either. Here are 10 simple and practical ways to cultivate self-love.

Practice positive affirmations

Positive affirmations may sound like a made-up thing, but they do work.

You see, the human brain sometimes gets a little mixed up on the difference between reality and imagination. So, why not use it to your benefit? Affirmations can help you feel better, especially if you have self-sabotaging thoughts. Pick the affirmations that reflect your soul. Self-help author and positive affirmations queen Louise Hay, in her book, ‘You Can Heal Your Life,’ writes, "I am in the right place at the right time, doing the right thing.

” What a perfect way to start your day!

Stop comparing yourself to others

We indeed live in a highly competitive world. So, comparing ourselves to others is quite natural. But it has its own evil side. Comparing yourselves with others will only make you feel inferior, which you don’t have to. Why? Because let's get the facts right. There is only one you! So comparing yourselves doesn’t even make sense in the first place. Instead, focus on yourselves.

Allow yourself to make mistakes

Perfection is a myth. Nobody is perfect. Mistakes are part of life. Imperfection is what makes us human. So, cut yourselves some slack. It’s okay to make mistakes, but the important thing is learn from them and grow. You don’t always have to give in to the societal pressure of being flawless to be worthy. As long as the mistakes are not deliberate, breathe!

Put yourself first

No, putting yourselves first is not selfish; it's self-worth. Most people, especially women, feel guilty about putting themselves first. If you are putting everyone else before yourself, at the cost of your peace, then it's not really worth it. After all, the longest relationship you will ever have is with yourselves!

Cut off the people who don’t serve you

Life is too short to spend it around the ones who exhaust you.

Surrounding yourself with toxic people will only make your life harder than it already is. It is okay to cut off the toxic ties that no longer serve you. Yes, it could be painful, but it could also be liberating at the same time.

Be kind to yourself

The world could use more kindness. But remember, kindness begins from within. Most of us are surrounded by critics. You don’t need to add yours to the mix. Treat yourselves with value and kindness.

Speak kindly of yourselves, and perhaps the world will take cues.

Prioritize self-care routines

Buying yourselves the expensive gym membership is not something you should be guilty about. Rather, take pride in it. Because caring for your body is the best thing you can do for yourself. Keep your body, mind, and soul healthy. Eat healthy meals that nourish your body. Don’t give in to the hustle if your body or mind needs rest.

Face your fears

Fear is not one of the most desirable emotions for human beings. But that very emotion is what makes us human. So do not run away from it. Process your fears. Face it. Walk right into it and deal with it. This will only strengthen your mind and soul.