Building a positive relationship with yourself is one of the most rewarding things you can strive for. It’s about nurturing a greater sense of self-worth, being kind to yourself and fostering habits that support your psychological and physical wellbeing.
Once you’re on better ground with yourself, it’s also about building stronger relationshipswith the people around you. If this is something you’re aiming for this year, here are some practical steps to help you along the way.
Practise self-love and compassion
Self-love is often misunderstood as self-indulgence. But at its core, it’s about treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a dear friend. Too often, we are our own harshest critics.
Notice the tone of your inner voice – would you speak to someone else that way? Try to start replacing self-critical thoughts with compassionate ones. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small, and forgive yourself for mistakes. Remember, you’re human.
Start with simple practices: write down three things you like about yourself each day or engage in activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s reading, painting or taking a long, unhurried walk, do what makes you truly happy.
Engage in mindfulness and self-reflection
It’s easy to rush through life without pausing to check in with yourself. Mindfulness is about being present in the moment while acknowledging your thoughts and feelings. This can help you understand your needs and desires more clearly.
Practising mindfulness doesn’t have to mean hours of meditation. A few minutes of deep breathing, journalling or even a mindful cup of tea can work wonders. Self-reflection also helps you identify patterns – what lifts you up, what drains you and where you might want to focus your energy.
Prioritise physical health
A healthy body supports a healthy mind. The focus shouldn’t solely be on how you look, but feeling strong and energised can transform how you see yourself. Regular movement, whether it’s yoga, running or dancing in your living room, releases endorphins and boosts your mood.
Eating well and staying hydrated are equally important. Instead of obsessing over diets, aim for balance – nourish your body with foods that make you feel good. And don’t overlook sleep. Rest is when your body and mind repair and recharge, so prioritise a consistent sleep routine.
If you’ve been putting off looking after certain aspects of your health, now’s the time to take charge. For example, home STI test kits are discreet and a proactive way to care for yourselfand others. Self-respect includes taking responsibility for your health.
Set healthy boundaries
Boundaries are a way of protecting your energy and ensuring your needs are met. Whether it’s saying “no” to unnecessary obligations or limiting time with people who drain you, boundaries help create space for the things that truly matter to you.
Learning to set boundaries can feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s an act of self-respect. Start small by declining plans when you need rest or carve out time for solo activities. Over time, you’ll notice how boundaries reinforce your sense of worth.
Improving your relationship with yourself takes time, patience and effort, but the results are undeniably worth it. After all, the most important relationship you’ll ever have is the one you build with yourself.
