Five Ways to Start Loving Yourself Today
We hear about having more self-love for ourselves but what does that really mean?
Self-love isn’t just a buzzword - it’s about creating a solid foundation for a fulfilled and authentic life. When you genuinely love yourself, you make decisions that align with your well-being, set healthy boundaries, show up for those you love in an empowered way and build resilience against life’s challenges.
If you’re ready to start embracing more self-love, here are five impactful ways to begin today:
Speak to Yourself with Compassion and Gratitude
It’s important to reflect on your strengths, achievements, and qualities you appreciate about yourself. The way you talk to yourself matters. Shift your internal dialogue to be kinder and more supportive, as you would with a close friend. When you get into a negative loop, think to yourself, is this what a friend would say to you. Put yourself into your friends shoes, and think about how they would speak to you.
Prioritize Your Needs Without Guilt
Self-love means recognizing that your needs are valid. It’s okay to say no without over-explaining or feeling guilty. Prioritize rest, joy, and activities that recharge you. Whether it’s taking a walk, reading a book, or simply having quiet time, honoring your needs reinforces your self-worth.
Create a Self-Care Routine That Feels Good
Self-care isn’t just bubble baths and spa days—it’s about nourishing your mind, body, and soul in ways that feel meaningful to you. Whether it’s morning meditation, regular exercise, creative expression, or simply resting when needed, design a routine that supports your well-being. And remember, it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming routine, but one that creates little sustained habit changes overall.
Let Go of Comparison and Set Boundaries
Comparing yourself to others can undermine your self-worth. Social media often shows the highlight reels, not the full picture. Focus on your own growth and progress instead and set healthy boundaries to protect your peace. If this means staying off social media for a bit - do it!
Surround Yourself with Supportive Energy
The people around you influence how you feel about yourself. Jim Rohn’s words “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with" is so true!
Choose relationships that uplift, encourage, and respect you. Distance yourself from negativity when possible and seek out communities that celebrate authenticity and growth. Remember, you deserve to be surrounded by people who see your worth.
Self-love journal prompts
Something that should be part of your self-care routine is journaling. When we take the time to put our thoughts on paper, we gain clarity, process emotions, and uncover subconscious patterns that may be holding us back.
If you’re ready to shift your inner dialogue, deepen your self-awareness, and nurture a more compassionate relationship with yourself, here are five daily prompts to ask yourself:
What is one thing I appreciate about myself today?
(No matter how big or small, give yourself the credit you’re due!)How did I show up for myself today, and how can I continue to prioritize my wellbeing?
(Maybe you set a boundary, made time for rest, or spoke kindly to yourself)What limiting thought or belief do I need to release, and what loving affirmation can I replace it with?
(For example: Instead of "I'm not good enough," try "I am worthy just as I am.")What is one small act of self-care I can do tomorrow to nurture my mind, body, or soul?
(It could be a mindful walk, journaling, nourishing food, or simply taking deep breaths.)If I were my own best friend, what would I tell myself right now?
(Offer yourself the same love and encouragement you’d give to someone you care about - afterall, you’d never talk to them the way you talk to yourself.)
Self-love is a journey, not a destination. It means treating yourself with the same kindness, respect, and compassion that you offer to others. It’s about accepting who you are, embracing your imperfections, and making choices that support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It’s about showing up for yourself every day, especially on the tough ones.
Start small, create little habit changes, be patient, and know that every act of kindness you extend to yourself creates a ripple effect in your life.
You are worthy of love—especially your own.
If you’re ready to release the subconscious mindset keeping you stuck, and let go of the negative self-talk once and for all, book a free consultation call with me to discover how hypnotherapy can support you on your journey to loving yourself.