Self-love is essential for personal well-being and growth, but it is difficult for many people to achieve. In a world that frequently values external validation and perfectionism, cultivating self-love necessitates deliberate mindset shifts.
The first step, according to Khyati Kanji, a psychologist and art therapist, is distinguishing between self-love and selfishness. “I’ve met several people who mistake self-love for selfishness. While selfishness is motivated by the desire to be inconsiderate, self-love is motivated by the desire to nurture oneself without causing harm or loss to others.”
Another common misconception, according to Kanji, is that “self-love only means showering oneself with gifts and indulging in all things we love.” “While that is one way of giving to ourselves, self-love can also involve engaging in activities that we may not like or find comfortable but know will benefit us in the long run.”
According to Kanji, steps to practice self-love include working out, going to therapy, focusing on self-growth, regular health check-ups, me-time, and maintaining emotional boundaries to preserve our peace of mind.
To take it a step further, therapist Israa Nasir took to Instagram to share seven “positive mindset shifts that encourage a more compassionate and accepting view of oneself.”
1. Embrace imperfection
Nasir advises people to shift from pursuing perfection to accepting imperfection. “Understand that making mistakes and having flaws are natural aspects of being human,” she said, adding that such experiences provide opportunities for growth and learning.
2. Cultivate gratitude for your body
Rather than focusing on perceived flaws, Nasir suggests cultivating gratitude for your body. “Appreciate it for the incredible things it allows you to do and the experiences it provides,” she went on to say.
3. Set boundaries without guilt
Nasir emphasized the importance of changing your mindset about setting boundaries. “Understand that setting limits is a healthy practice — not a rejection of others.”
She emphasized that setting boundaries is a way to prioritize your own well-being and maintain healthy relationships.
4. Prioritise compassion over criticism
Nasir advised treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would show a friend going through a difficult time. “Acknowledge that everyone experiences setbacks, and it’s okay to be gentle with yourself.”
5. Nurture a growth mindset
Cultivating a growth mindset entails viewing obstacles and failures as opportunities for learning and development. “Reframe setbacks as part of the journey toward improvement rather than as reflections of personal inadequacy or failures,” Nasir said in a statement.
6. Let go of comparisons
Get rid of the habit of comparing yourself to others. “Understand that everyone’s journey is unique, and comparing yourself to others only hinders your self-love,” Nasir went on to say. Instead, concentrate on your unique path and celebrate your accomplishments.
7. Prioritise self-reflection
Accept self-reflection as a tool for personal development. Instead of fearing self-exploration, Nasir suggested viewing it as an opportunity to better understand your needs, desires, and motivations. “Regular self-reflection creates a deeper connection with yourself.”