'New year, new me.' It's a common phrase that is often uttered at the end of a long and tough year. The idea behind it is simple: start fresh in the new year with a clean slate. But what if you don't want to change? What if you're happy as-is? Well, we're here to say that there are ways to embrace yourself and live life with love without any resolutions or pressure from society telling us we need to be better. In this blog post we'll share 10 tips on how you can live your life embracing yourself and life as it is!
Tip #01: Spend time in nature (if you enjoy it).
Spending time outside in nature is a great way to connect with yourself and your surroundings. It's also a great way to de-stress and unwind. Whether you go to sit in a park, lie by the river or simply take a walk to the shop on your lunch break, being outdoors always makes me feel more connected. Being comfortable is key when spending time outdoors as it helps you relax and reflect on what's good about life.
Tip #02: Be comfortable with who you are.
One of the best things we can do for ourselves is to be comfortable with who we are. We don't need to change or be someone else in order to be happy. It's important to love and accept ourselves just as we are. When we're comfortable, it shows in our work, our outlook on life and our relationships with others.
Tip #03: Don't compare yourself to others.
Comparing ourselves to others is never a good idea. It often leads to feelings of envy, insecurity and self-doubt. We are all different and that's what makes us unique! So celebrate your differences and be proud of who you are. There's no need to compete with the norms because individuality is beautiful.
Tip #04: Let go of negative thoughts and emotions.
One way to live with compassion and love is to let go of any negative thoughts or emotions we may be holding onto. This can be tough, but it's definitely worth it! When we're able to let go of our anger, resentment, guilt or sadness, we naturally become happier in the process. No need to set goals here, live life as you feel comfortable doing so.
Tip #05: Enjoy the little things.
Remember to appreciate all of life's simple pleasures and be grateful for what you already have in your life. From the smell of fresh, cut grass on a summer day, watching burnt orange leaves drop in autumn, to walking along an empty beach during winter time; there are so many small joys worth savouring! When we focus on the wonderful intricacies of life and celebrate the mini victories we see there is lots to be happy about.
Tip #06: Spend time with loved ones.
Whether you stay in touch via text, social media or in person, it's important that we make an effort to connect with those we care about. Quality time doesn't have to mean big things but a simple good morning could set you up for a good day. Equally a loved one could be yourself, don't be ashamed of having a cozy day alone in bed watching TV, you deserve time to yourself too!
Tip #07: Live with the moment.
One of my favourite quotes is by Thich Nhat Hanh, a Buddhist monk and peace activist who said "Life is available only in the present moment." When we're living with the moment, we're fully engaged and aware of what's happening around us. We savour experiences more and appreciate life more. Some of the best things that happen in life are spontaneous and unplanned. So embrace the unexpected and live in the moment!
Tip #08: Be kind.
Everyone wants to be happy, why not start with doing something nice for someone else? It's part of embracing yourself and living your best life. Doing things for others gives you energy rather than taking it away from you. When we're helping others, giving compliments and spreading positive vibes we're doing good so you'll feel great about yourself too.
Tip #09: Be grateful.
Embracing yourself includes embracing life around you. Being thankful for what we already have in our life but may not remember to notice. Recognising the things and people who make us happy (including ourselves) can have a big impact on wellbeing. There are many opportunities throughout the day where we can give thanks, some people reflect first thing in the morning, others write notes to themselves on their phone or in a gratitude journal, whilst some people prefer to talk about positive things with friends. Things we may forget to notice are laughing so hard you cry, waking up thinking it's a workday when it's not, cancelled plans you didn't want to go to anyway, good hair and makeup days, singing along to your favourite song, a hug from an old friend.
Tip #010: Let go of guilt.
When we let go of guilt, it sets us free from negative emotions that are eating away at our happiness. Allow yourself to do what you want to do. Have that glass (bottle) of prosecco, buy the new shoes, spend an extra 30 minutes getting ready, eat the food that makes you happy. Do the things you love guilt-free because you deserve it and don't forget that!
There you have it, our top tips on how to embrace yourself and live your best life! We hope you find them useful. Do you think these tips could help someone you know, why not share this blog with the people you love?
Remember, try to think about yourself and do things that make you feel good.
Wishing you all a happy, healthy and lovely 2022!
Flissie xx