As it is World Kindness Day on Sunday, the Busy B team thought it might be helpful to share some ways to be kinder to yourself. We all appreciate being on the receiving end of kindness, however, how often are you receiving it from yourself?
Why should you be kind to yourself? Being kind to yourself every day is one of the best things that you can do to help to keep your mind and body strong and healthy.
We've come up with some easy ways to help you to start feeling better about yourself through self-kindness. Check them out below:
Do What’s Best for You
Now and again it’s okay to say no to social gatherings if you feel like you just need some precious time to yourself to relax on the sofa in your pyjamas with a face mask on.
It’s important to put yourself and your wellbeing first sometimes and do what is best for you. Politely decline the invitation and take some well-deserved me-time - you can always go next time!
Forgive Yourself
We all make mistakes now and again and we know it can be hard to let these go. Forgive yourself for your wrongdoing as it isn’t productive to criticise yourself for your slip-ups and won’t help to resolve the situation.
Instead of focusing on the downfall and thinking negatively about yourself, why not remind yourself of your successes in the past and concentrate on rectifying the mistake? By doing so, you’ll give yourself a boost and hopefully stop yourself from making the same mistakes in the future. In time, you might even help a friend to make the right decision when faced with the same issue.
Don’t Compare Yourself to Others
Comparing yourself to others is one of the easiest ways to feel bad about yourself and can make you feel inferior. People on social media, TV or even at work who may appear to be leading beautiful lives, however, you have to remember that you’re only seeing a part of the whole picture.
If you feel that social media is encouraging you to compare yourself to others, why not take a break from it? Spend the time doing something that will make you feel good about yourself like going to a gym class, practising mindfulness or spending time with family or friends.
Look After Yourself
Be kinder to yourself every day by looking after your mind and body. Making sure that your mind is healthy, as well as your body, is such an important part of your self-care. Some simple ways to look after yourself are:
• Eating healthily
• Exercising regularly
• Getting 8 hours sleep at night
• Taking time to relax e.g. have a bath, reading a good book or writing in a mindfulness journal
• If you can, spend a bit of time outside every day
Try Something New
Get out of your comfort zone and test out a new activity or sport. To begin with, it may be difficult, but it will be rewarding. Learning a new skill will develop your confidence and even creativity. This could be helpful in other parts of your life such as at work or in family life.
You may not like it at the beginning but your future self may be grateful to you for trying something new!
Happy World Kindness Day!