OK, so it’s a brand new year. What does that mean to you and about you? Everyone is making resolutions that will change the way they look and act out there in the world. But how about how you act toward yourself – and how you feel? As women, we too often focus on how our lives relate to those around us and before we know it, we’ve forgotten to cultivate what is by far the most important relationship – the one with ourselves. The fashion mogul Diane Von Furstenberg said it best: When a woman becomes her own best friend, life is easier. So here are 4 steps to help you cultivate the best possible relationship – with you.
How to Reconnect with Yourself
Ask Yourself Questions
What kind of person are you – an introvert or an extrovert? What do you like to do most? Read, dance, organize? Sit down somewhere comfortable and make a list of all of the things you love about yourself, everything that makes you uniquely you. Explore the things that make you special and make a point to remind yourself why you are worthwhile. Remember, we are all more than what we can offer others. You rock for being you!
Feed Your Creative Side
Your creativity will flourish if you get moving so think about which activities make you feel most creative and do them. Are you drawn to the peace of a yoga class? Does the excitement of an improv class make you feel creative? Do you crave the adrenaline boost you feel when you reorganize your closets? Step out of your comfort zone and do something that really makes you feel alive.
Buy Yourself A Treat
There’s nothing quite like treating yourself well to make you feel special. So carve some time out of the week for just you. That can mean anything from reading a novel in a comfy chair with your favourite frothy hot chocolate to buying that sweater you’ve been eyeing for months to booking a solo spa day. You’ve learned what it is you like; it’s time to give yourself the gift of follow-through.
Ask Yourself Out On A Date
Take yourself out somewhere to experience something you love. Alone. Yes, it can be a frightening thought – no books, no smart phone, no one to make conversation. But once you get out there alone, without all the distractions of daily life that can cause stress, you’ll relax. Letting yourself live in the moment – feel the wind, smell the fire, hear the hum of whatever is background noise – is truly a gift. When you’re just with yourself, you never know what you will find. Who knows, you may even fall in love.
