We all want to be loved and often focus on receiving this love from others. But the reality is that we cannot completely control the love and approval of others. We can’t control how others think or feel about us. But what if we focused on loving ourselves instead?

Do you do that too? We often forget that the most important relationship we can have is with ourselves. Self-love is the foundation for a fulfilled and authentic life. It enables us to recognize our own needs, appreciate our strengths and accept ourselves despite our weaknesses.

Exercises for more self-love every day

The beauty of self-love is that it is in our own hands. We have the power to love ourselves, regardless of the opinions or actions of others. By embarking on this path of self-love, we can make a profound change in our lives and find a sense of fulfillment and contentment that comes from within.

In this post, I will explore with you six exercises that can help you develop more self-love and self-acceptance. Because you deserve to love and accept yourself exactly as you are. Before I go into the exercises, I’d like to answer a few basic questions:

How does a lack of self-love manifest itself?

Perhaps you’re not quite sure how you can tell that you still have room for improvement when it comes to self-love? A lack of self-love manifests itself in different ways and can vary from person to person. However, here are some common signs:

1. Negative self-talk

People with a lack of self-love tend to be self-deprecating and have negative thoughts about themselves. They may constantly criticize themselves, feel they are not good enough or judge themselves for their flaws and weaknesses.

2. Perfectionism

Excessive striving for perfection can be a sign of a lack of self-love. Those affected set themselves unrealistically high standards and are never satisfied with their achievements, believing that they are only lovable if they are perfect.

3. Self-neglect

People with a lack of self-love often do not take sufficient care of their own needs and desires. They put the needs of others above their own and neglect their physical, emotional and mental health.

4 Difficulties with self-acceptance

The lack of self-love can lead to a lack of self-acceptance. Those affected have difficulty accepting themselves as they are and feel uncomfortable in their own skin.

5. Dependence on external validation

People with a lack of self-love often constantly seek validation and approval from others to boost their self-esteem. They only feel good about themselves when they receive external praise and approval.

6. Difficulties in setting boundaries

Those affected often find it difficult to set clear boundaries and protect themselves from negative influences. They may feel taken advantage of or cling to unhealthy relationships or situations for fear of being rejected.

It’s important to note that the lack of self-love is a complex and multi-faceted issue and that the above signs don’t necessarily apply to everyone. If you feel that you are suffering from a lack of self-love, it is advisable to seek support from a therapist or counselor who can help you strengthen your self-love and self-acceptance.

How is self-love expressed?

Self-love expresses itself in many different ways and can vary from person to person. Some signs include positive self-talk, self-care, self-acceptance, setting healthy boundaries and having confidence in your own abilities. It means respecting, valuing and standing up for yourself, regardless of the opinions or actions of others. Ultimately, self-love expresses itself in a deep sense of appreciation and affection for oneself.

In short: you are the most important person in your life – and that’s a good thing!

And this has nothing to do with selfishness if you value yourself.

Exercises for more self-love

As promised, here are the exercises:

1. Daily self-reflection

Take a few minutes every day to think about your thoughts and feelings. Make a note of what made you particularly proud that day, what challenges you overcame and what you appreciate about yourself. This simple exercise can help to raise your awareness of your own strengths and achievements. Are there areas of your life in which you are dissatisfied? This is valuable to feel – something may need to be changed here.

2. Affirmations

Use positive affirmations to strengthen your self-esteem. Choose positive statements such as “I am enough”, “I am valuable” or “I love and accept myself unconditionally” and repeat them regularly, preferably daily. By feeding these positive thoughts into your subconscious, you can slowly improve your self-image. A nice form of affirmations are songs, sing a song to yourself, this also makes you happy. For example, sing the Gayatri mantra. Here is an example of the Gayatri Mantra.

3. self-care

Make yourself a priority by taking regular time for self-care. This can include anything from a relaxing bath to reading a good book to a meditation session. By consciously taking time for yourself and doing good for yourself, you show yourself that you are worthy of being cared for and loved. Also look in the mirror and say to yourself: “I love you!”

4. practise gratitude

Focus on what you are grateful for and keep a regular gratitude list. This can help to raise your awareness of the positive aspects of your life and help you to appreciate yourself and your life more. Even in difficult times, you can find something to be grateful for, whether it’s a supportive person, a beautiful sunset or simply your own inner strength. Take a look at this article on gratitude.

5. set boundaries

Learn to set clear boundaries and protect yourself by saying no to things that are not good for you. This can mean saying no when you feel overwhelmed, distancing yourself from negative relationships or putting your own needs and desires before those of others. By respecting yourself and honoring your own boundaries, you show yourself that you are worthy of being in healthy relationships and feeling good about yourself.

These exercises take time, patience and practice, but they can make a significant difference in your life as you embark on the path to self-love. Remember that self-love is not a final destination, but an ongoing journey, and be gentle and compassionate with yourself as you move forward. Because you deserve to love and accept yourself exactly as you are.

6. learn from mistakes and don’t beat yourself up

It’s important to realize that mistakes are a natural part of life and offer us the opportunity to grow and develop. Instead of beating yourself up for mistakes or feeling bad, it is helpful to see them as learning experiences. Reflect on your mistakes and ask yourself what you can learn from them. Accept that no one is perfect and that it is perfectly okay to make mistakes. By treating yourself with compassion and forgiving yourself, you foster an atmosphere of self-acceptance and self-love.

When you love yourself, it becomes easier for you to live authentically every day and you begin to radiate from within. It also has an effect on your relationships – because you are more attractive to others – because love is like a magnet.

What are your experiences with exercises for more self-love?

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Hi, I am Shivani

blogger and podcaster at Madhukar Enlighten Life. I have known Madhukar since 2004 and am doing what I can to ensure that his effective message of happiness spreads to many people.