When we engage in behaviors that align with our values and proactively love ourselves well, it builds a more solid sense of self, improves self-esteem, increases a feeling of groundedness, decreases anxiety, and brings us more peace. These are not merely words and phrases I’ve used here; the evidence lies in my personal experiences and the observations I’ve made over 25 years of working with clients.

If you struggle with loving yourself well, consider these steps.

Self-care focused on your body:

• Limit or abstain from alcohol and other addictive substances
• Drink enough water
• Healthy eating
• Daily exercise
• Maintain a healthy sleep schedule

Self-care focused on your mind and emotions:

• See a psychotherapist
• Reduce time on social media
• Get clear on your values and develop behavior that is congruent with them
• Increase self-trust by making and keeping promises to yourself
• Practice self-compassion (replacing judgment with curiosity)
• Practice gratitude
• Train your mind to manage your inner critic
• Practice healthy boundaries
• Practice acceptance of emotions, while balancing clear thinking
• Have consistent emotion check-ins with your feelings, desires, wants, and needs

Self-care focused on your soul and spirituality:

• Engage in creative activities
• Spend time in nature
• Reading
• Practice meditation (I personally practice Contemplative Meditation, Centering Prayer, and Lectio Divina)
• Engage in daily spiritual practices

These practical tips were taken from Psychology Today, see the full article here.  https://www.psychologytoday.com/ie/blog/the-stories-we-tell-ourselves/202511/building-a-stronger-relationship-with-yourself