Growing up, we’re all subjected to criticism, which we like to think helped us, but constant criticism may have done more harm than good. I recognize that criticism is an important part of our self-development, but I also recognise that it must be balanced. Today, I’m asking you to strike a balance by honouring yourself.
You’ve made more than your fair share of sacrifices. Lived generous lives, always looking after others, but who looked after you? Did you allow yourself to be a little selfish in the midst of all the sacrifices?
It does happen! Isn’t that what we’re taught? To take care of others rather than being self-centered all of the time. So, when it’s time to honor yourself and give yourself some glimmer of hope, you’re bound to feel uncomfortable. After, what seems like a lifecycle of disregarding your needs, you might feel very guilty for honouring your needs in turn. I completely understand. That is why I am asking you to take some time today to honour yourself. You deserve it, and you should. “What does it mean to honour yourself?” you may be wondering. Let me tell you something!
Why Should You Respect Yourself?
When I say “honour yourself,” I mean respect, admire, and appreciate yourself and all of your efforts and sacrifices in your life thus far. Honoring yourself does not imply stroking your ego or placing yourself on an excessively high pedestal, it’s about accepting and appreciating yourself for who you are.
Honoring yourself entails seeing your values, beliefs, and desires for what they are and sticking to them, and you accept responsibility for them with dignity.
Honoring yourself shows others that you are true to yourself, your values, beliefs, and desires. It demonstrates that you have much more to offer regarding respect. It’s one of the best ways to show yourself and others that you respect yourself, cure yourself with the kindness you show others, and acknowledge yourself for who you are. At most, honouring yourself is the very first step towards self-love. Here are some subtle ways to respect yourself.
5 Ways to Respect Yourself
1. Remain True to Yourself
You can only honour yourself if you are truthful with yourself. Sincerity and honor are two opposites of a single coin. One cannot exist without the other. It would be best to recognize that being dishonest with yourself only harms you further.
So, check in to your feelings and ask yourself, “What are my emotions telling me?” Pay attention to them and begin by honouring them. Journaling can be a good place to start.
2. Give Yourself the Required Time
It’s natural to feel exhausted after dealing with day-to-day stressors, but you can’t let them drag you down and deprive you of the respect you deserve. Take some time to unwind if you notice your energy dwindling and you’re losing the desire to care for yourself.
You can try to do what you enjoy, such as going for a walk in the park, practicing mindfulness through meditation retreat London, listening to your favourite music, getting that massage you’ve been meaning to get, or simply taking a relaxing vacation. Pay attention to your needs and allow yourself some downtime.
3. Create and Follow Boundaries
You may not realise it, but setting boundaries is one of the most effective ways to honour and love yourself. It’s a skill that everyone should be familiar with. Setting boundaries may feel uncomfortable at first, but you’ll thank yourself in the long run.
You can begin slowly. Turn off your phone when you’re not at work or need some alone time, and allow yourself to decline any request beyond your capabilities. You’ll begin to appreciate yourself more as you learn to do this unblocked games 67.
4. Build a Circle of Positive People
As previously stated, constant criticism can cause more harm than good, so take a step back if you find yourself around individuals who are not appreciative of what you do or who you are. No one has the right to belittle or demean you, and if this is happening to you, get out of that toxic environment.
Choose to hang out with people who encourage you, share your energy and enthusiasm, inspire you, and allow you to be yourself without judgment.
5. Make Room for Yourself
If you’re in a relationship, you might feel obligated to do everything for your partner. That, however, is not how it should be. You should be able to pursue your own interests, hobbies, and passions. A healthy space can occasionally benefit your and your relationships’ growth.
You must encourage yourself to make room for self-development and growth to honor yourself and your needs. You must pay attention to more than just your partner and the relationship.
6. Decide Yourself
When you need help with how to honour yourself and your needs, seek help. Seeking help indicates that you care about yourself and want to improve yourself. A professional or a trusted loved one can be helpful.
When you receive advice, you can choose to follow it or make your own decision. Allow yourself to listen, but if the advice isn’t what you’re looking for, respect yourself by making your own decision.
The Final Words
When I say “honour yourself,” I mean “honour everyone!” This includes your spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical requirements. Pay attention to what your mind, heart, and body are telling you and act on their requests.