Self-Love Habits: 14 Ways to Start Practicing Self-Love

How do you practice self-love? Self-love is an appreciation of your own worth or virtue and attention to your happiness or well-being. If you’re not sure how to start showing yourself some love, here are 14 self-love habits and self-care ideas to inspire your mindfulness journey today. 

1. Start Loving Yourself 

Be kind to yourself because you are amazing exactly how you are. Make self-care a priority, even if you only have a few minutes to focus on yourself. Learn to practice healthy boundaries. 

When you’re having a great day, write down how you feel or write yourself a thoughtful note. Stick it on your mirror or put it in your desk drawer to serve as a gentle reminder to love yourself even on the not-so-great days. 

2. Practice Gratitude 

Giving thanks can make you happier. Being grateful helps you appreciate what you have instead of focusing on what you don’t. 

Want to start practicing gratitude today? Keep a gratitude journal, count your blessings, or text a friend to say thanks. 

3. Let Go Of Negative Thoughts 

We can’t prevent negative thoughts, but we can control how we react to them. Recognize what’s causing negativity and choose to shift your mindset. Surround yourself with positive people who share your energy and end toxic relationships in your life. Stop worrying about what other people think.

Related: How to let go of negative thoughts. 

4. Stop Comparing 

It’s easy to start comparing your life to someone else’s the minute you start scrolling on social media. When you notice this habit, take a minute to breathe and disconnect. If you find it challenging to unplug, remove apps for your phone for a few days, weeks, or even months. 

Remember your job or how many followers you have doesn’t define you.  

5. Take a Few Minutes for Yourself 

I’m a big believer in filling your cup first. If you don’t listen to your body and nourish your soul, it’s easy to feel burnout. Do something that makes you feel good. It’s also really important to treat yourself every once in a while. 

6. Give Yourself Grace 

Allow yourself to make mistakes. Give yourself grace to be imperfect. Don’t beat yourself for your mistakes or past decisions. Remember, you are exactly where you are supposed to be. 

7. Practice Mindfulness 

If you’re having a hard time juggling it all, take a minute to pause and enjoy this moment. Look for ways to stay present throughout your day. Check in with yourself and ask yourself what you need right now. Whether it’s a cup of water or a minute to let your mind wander, make time to do things that make you feel the way you want to feel. 

You may also like: Finding Balance and Time for Yourself as a New Mom.

8. Put Yourself First 

Self-love is about showing yourself respect, love, and grace. Be kind to yourself and give yourself time and space to do nothing if that’s what makes you feel good. 

9. Protect Your Energy 

Do you ever feel bad saying no? Don’t feel guilty about passing on opportunities that don’t align with your goals. Trust your instinct. Sometimes it’s easier to say no in the first place than to try to do something you really don’t want to do. 

10. Choose Your Mantra 

If you want to change your life, start letting go of any negative beliefs holding you back. Choose positive affirmations that move and inspire you to help you reach your highest potential. 

Need a reminder of how wonderful you are? Check out these inspirational bracelets to keep you motivated throughout the day. Choose your favorite mantra and wear it daily. 

Self-Love Affirmations: 

• I am enough. 
• I am exactly where I need to be. 
• I’m doing the best I can. 
• I am grateful. 
• I’m doing a great job.

11. Trust Your Instinct 

There is no better time than right now to accomplish what you want to do. Believe in yourself and know that you’re making the right choices. Don’t let self-doubt or “what ifs” get in the way of reaching your goals. Trust yourself and your instinct. 

12. Spend time outside 

Starting at your computer all day can be so draining. Take breaks throughout the day to clear your head. Be mindful of your breath and listen to the sounds of nature. 

Hot tip: Leave your phone at home to disconnect and enjoy your time outside. 

13. Be Patient With Yourself 

Focus on how far you’ve come instead of perfection. When creating a to-do list, try not to get overwhelmed by the things you didn’t get to accomplish. Celebrate your achievements and the goals you’ve reached, even if some of them took forever. 

14. Declutter + Detox 

Want to create some space and clarity in your life? Take some time to declutter your home, closet, or mind. Here are a few simple habits and ideas to cleanse your mind and body.  

• Donate stuff you’re no longer using. 
• Do a brain dump and jot down any ideas or thoughts. 
• Turn off social media for the day. 
• Try a healthy recipe. 
• Go to bed early. 
• Make yourself a smoothie. 
• Take a walk. 
• Unsubscribe from email lists you’re no longer interested in. 
• Stretch at home. 
• Spend time with people who make you feel good. 
• Make a list of anything that makes you smile. Share it with a friend. 

How are you practicing self-love today? What are your favorite self-love habits?

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Wearing Paris and I Activewear, an Australian-made activewear brand that’s all about harnessing the power of self-love. Check out their Instagram for empowering body-positive and inclusive content to inspire your self-love journey.