Hopefully we all know how important is it to love yourself. But it seems to be one of the hardest things to do. We all have vulnerabilities and tend to be more strict for ourselves than for others, for the ones we care about.

The first time I realized that was when someone said the following to me: “Turn it around, if I did that, would you react so harshly? Or would you be understanding and would you support me?” It hit me, I would indeed never respond like that to my best friend. Of course, you want the best for yourself. Unfortunately, in most cases loving yourself is something you have to learn. And that is possible!

Start with someone else and work towards yourself

Loving, supporting and motivating someone else might be easier for you. So start with someone you care about a lot, think of him or her: your brother, best friend or your mother. Think of him or her and find out why you love this person so much. For example: you are honest, funny or inspiring. Then think of everything you want for him or her: I wish you happiness, love and health.

Try it for yourself now:

• I am smart
• I am funny
• I am a go-getter
• I wish that I feel happy
• I wish that I feel confident
• I wish I feel carefree

Make a list for yourself of the things you feel good about. It doesn’t have to be a long list. Do you still have some trouble? Then try to think about how others see you. What would your best friend or brother say about you? Write it down and read it when you need some love.

Tell yourself you love yourself!

Kamal Ravikant describes another trick in his book: just ‘say’ (in your mind) that you love yourself. When you are brushing your hair, cooking, walking or just before bedtime.

In the beginning it certainly feels uncomfortable and ‘crazy’. But it works! Your subconscious is in fact quite naïve and takes many things for truth. After a while you will really believe it. It will be your new truth!

Do you know a trick to stimulate self-love?

“Self-love is the source of all our other loves. ” – Pierre Corneille

NiceDay: Describe statements you tell yourself in your NiceDay diary and write down how you feel about it. You can also add a reminder to your Daily Planner to reflect on self-love every day!