If the last few months have taught me one thing, it’s that I need to be nicer to myself.

I’ve always known that I carry the “the perfectionism gene,” but once I started looking more deeply inward and discussing all these negative stories and limiting beliefs with somebody whose job is to listen non-judgmentally and empathically, I realized just how unkind to myself I could be.

In fact, when it comes to setting goals and discussing who I am when I’m at my best, I struggle to come up with examples. ☹

I mean, I know some of the things I’m good at—I’m a good writer, I’m compassionate, I’m really freaking funny when I want to be, I’m a good mommy to Bazooka (and an ok dog mommy to Iggy)—but looking further and deeper, I’m at a loss—which of course leads me to harbor even more self-critical thoughts.

Instead of fighting that vicious cycle, why not use some of that mental energy and limited time to practice some self-kindness?

I’ve already talked about #boringselfcare and still love that concept, so this is a continuation of that idea.

15 Ways to Be Nice to Yourself Today

Wake up a few minutes early to make yourself a good breakfast (smoothie self-care anyone?)

Or sleep a few minutes later if your energy tank is hovering above empty

Skip the scale—don’t let a number set the day’s mood

Write an encouraging letter to yourself and read it aloud

Break out the really good chocolate (for me it’s dark—and salted or studded with some coconut, dried fruit or almond slivers) and savor a piece

Spend an extra 5 minutes in the hot shower (maybe it’s not the most environmental choice, but you deserve it)

Re-read a favorite book cover-to-cover

Change up your normal exercise routine; if you generally run a few miles but are feeling worn out, do an hour of gentle yoga or take a scenic walk in nature

Pick up your favorite takeout, put on your most comfy pair of PJs, and park yourself in front of the coffee table to watch a few episodes of your newest binge-worthy Netflix show

Buy some fresh flowers (the expensive kind, if that’s what you want) just to add a little color to your world

Break out your journal and write down all the things you’ve accomplished in the last year

Schedule an impromptu coffee date with a friend (or by yourself) and relish the conversation (or the solitude); add a pastry to that coffee, just because

Buy a high-quality face mask, diffuse your favorite essential oils, and give yourself a facial

Crank up your favorite cheesy dance music and have a dance party

Give yourself permission; whether it’s permission to change your narrative and your mind, permission to take a risk, permission to say something bold, permission to travel alone, just give yourself permission and do so wholeheartedly!

15 Ways to be nice to yourself today! #selfcare #mentalhealth #boringselfcare Share on X

[linking up with Amanda for thinking out loud]

So tell me…

• How have you been nice to yourself this week?
• What is a current negative/limiting belief you struggle with—and how do you plan to overcome it?