I'M GONNA BE MY OWN BEST FRIEND............
TRUE WISDOM This first half of the year has shown me the importance of cultivating a genuine friendship with oneself. SELF-CARE is best learned this way.
A true friend accepts you just the way you are, loves you unconditionally, and cheers you on. Good friends always support one another in this way. Why, then, do we have such a hard time being kind to ourselves? After all, our connection with ourselves will last the longest of anyone's life. Use these guidelines to become your own best buddy.
*Mind Your Own Language
How do you treat your closest friend? Is it the same as how you treat yourself? When anything occurs, pay attention to what your mind has to say. Usually, it's just a negative inner monologue. It's time to tell yourself what you'd tell your closest friend: replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations.
*Explore Your Identity
People are often influenced and led to action by events outside their control. Reflecting on your beliefs, preferences, and interests might lead to new insights about yourself. You will come to accept and value yourself without regard to the opinions of others.
*It's OK to Give Yourself a High Five
Take a few moments to bask in the glow of success and celebrate your accomplishments. Feel free to pat yourself on the back for a job well done. Please take some time to absorb and savor the experience.
*Engage in Some "Me Time"
When your closest buddy recently contacted you, how did you respond to their complaints of feeling overworked and stressed? It's possible that you instructed them to skip work today. You should follow your own advice. When you're feeling overwhelmed and need a break, take the advice you'd give to a close friend.
*Be sure to poke fun at your own mistakes.
The fun and laughter shared among friends is a major perk of having them as friends. Don't be too serious about laughing at your own mistakes. Don't be so serious all the time; you're a delightful human being. Live, Laugh, and Learn!
*Adopt Your Unique Personality Flaws
Recognize that you are a complex person with both positive and negative traits. You adore your best buddy despite the fact that they have annoying habits. Show yourself the same compassion and understanding.
*Master the Art of Solitude
Spending time alone with a close friend may be one of the most rewarding experiences. Why can't you get the same satisfaction from being by yourself? Set off on a solo trek. Relax in the park and enjoy the birdsong. Take in some exhibits in a museum while you kill some time. Master the art of enjoying your own company.
*What Helps You Relax?
You know just what to say and do to cheer up your closest buddy when they're having a rough day. You have a good idea of what will make them happy and what they like. But what about you? What makes you feel at ease? Do you seek this solace out on purpose when you're feeling down?
*Believe in Your Own Value
Our closest friends are deserving of our time and attention, therefore, we devote that time to them. That's how you ought to think about yourself, too. If you don't value yourself, you won't ever take the time to nurture yourself.
Remember, “Self care is not selfish; it’s stewardship.”
