When we think about self-love, we often think about loving self-talk, self-care, self-forgiveness … but what about self-celebration? Celebrating ourselves for our wins, however big or small, is such a positive way to boost self-esteem and give us the loving kindness we all deserve.
How can we self-celebrate?
1. Use a Mantra
When you have completed something you feel proud of, repeat a simple mantra to yourself (out loud or in your head), such as “I am proud of my achievement” or “I am proud of the person I am today.”
2. Reward Yourself
Have you finally finished your assignment? Or spring cleaned your house? Acknowledge it, sit with that feeling of accomplishment, and reward yourself in the same way you would a friend or a child. That could mean treating yourself to some new skincare, carving out time for a long candlelit bath, or booking a dinner at your favorite restaurant.
3. Tell Someone
We often hold back from telling others when we feel proud of ourselves out of fear of sounding arrogant or boastful. But self-celebration does not equal those things. Self-celebration can be humble, inspiring, and uplifting: I personally love hearing my friends share their high vibes with me! I encourage you all to start sharing your successes with the people in your life, whether it’s your best friend, your mom, or even your therapist. Don’t be afraid to say, “I finally did my laundry today, and I felt so good about that.” Not only might it encourage them to do the same, but using self-affirming language out loud will help boost your self-esteem on a subconscious level too. Win-win.
4. Journal
Every night before bed, write down at least five things you did that day that you felt proud of. Doing this consistently will retrain your brain to focus on your achievements, which will increase your self-esteem and overall capacity for self-love.
Top Tip: If you are feeling that you need an extra boost of confidence, try this. Light incense or a candle, play some relaxing music, and spend 15 minutes writing down all the things that you are proud of from the past year. Trust me, you will feel so good after doing this.
What should we self-celebrate?
There is no win too small!
We live in a goal-oriented world, and it is so easy to assume that the only achievements we should celebrate are the big ones: an engagement, signing on a new home, a promotion, a new job. It puts an immense amount of pressure on us and prevents us from acknowledging all the incredible things we offer ourselves each and every day. Make a conscious effort to start congratulating yourself on everything you do, no matter how small: cooking a new recipe, completing a workout, or even just giving yourself time and space to rest and relax.
Life is a wild ride—it is full of surprises, challenges, ups, and downs. So whichever way you are navigating through it, you are a hero in my eyes, and you deserve to remind yourself of what an amazing job you are doing. GO YOU!
Roxie Nafousi is a self-development coach, manifesting expert, yoga teacher, and host of the podcast “The Moments That Made Me.” Head to her website to book a spot in her next self-development webinar, schedule a one-on-one advice session, or download one of her meditations or affirmation playlists designed to help you on your manifestation journeys. Follow her on Instagram.
