Befriending yourself is a powerful act of self-care and personal growth. It involves cultivating self-compassion, understanding, and trust in your own company. Below are a few practices to help you build a stronger relationship with yourself:
1. Practice Self-Compassion
•Treat yourself the way you would a dear friend—especially when things go wrong.
•Replace harsh self-criticism with kind, supportive words.
•Remember, imperfection is human. We are are perfectly imperfect!
2. Spend Quality Time Alone
•Engage in activities you enjoy, like reading, dancing, a creative outlet like painting, drawing, gardening, woodworking.
•Take yourself out for a nutritious meal, a movie, or a go on a walk, hike or bike ride to soak up the sun, fresh air and nature .
•Learn to enjoy solitude without distractions like your phone or social media.
3. Get to Know Yourself
•Journal and Reflect on your values, goals, and dreams.
•Journal about your thoughts and feelings to better understand what’s on your mind and where any negative thoughts and behaviors have come from. Know that we have the ability to change with awareness.
•Explore your likes, dislikes, strengths, and areas for growth.
4. Celebrate Your Wins
•Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. No matter how small or big.
•Reward yourself in a healthy way for showing up, trying, and growing.
5. Develop Self-Trust
•Follow through on promises you make to yourself.
•Make decisions based on your needs and priorities rather than external pressure.
•Accept that mistakes are part of learning and growth.
6. Focus on Your Well-Being
•Prioritize physical health by eating well, exercising, and resting.
•Practice mindfulness or meditation to stay present.
•Create boundaries to protect your energy and mental space.
7. Speak Kindly to Yourself
•Monitor your inner dialogue. And swap a negative thought for 3 positive affirmation like, “I am enough,” or “I am doing my best.”
8. Seek Professional Support if Needed
•Therapy or coaching can help you work through barriers to self-acceptance and guide you on your journey to self-friendship.
9. Cultivate Gratitude for Yourself
•Write down three things you appreciate about yourself each day.
•Recognize the effort you put into your life and the unique qualities you bring to the world.
The goal is to become your own safe space—a friend you can rely on in both good and challenging times.
