How To Be Your Own Best Friend

I wholeheartedly believe that at the end of the day, we are all our own best friend. Think about it—you spend the most time with yourself! And if that’s the case, why not make the most of our own self-friendships? Once I started to mindfully accept this concept and treat myself as I would my friends, I noticed an overall shift in my happiness.

Friends come and go throughout all our lives. We grow apart, they move away, or there could be a falling out — but you’ll always have yourself in the end.

Speak Kindly to Yourself

It’s easy to fall into negative patterns, self critique, and self-doubting thoughts. “Why haven’t I accomplished this yet? Do I really deserve that? Why does nothing work out for me?” 

But how would you answer those questions if your best friend asked you? You wouldn’t agree with them and say, “You’re so right, nothing works for you, you’ve accomplished nothing!” Instead, you would be uplifting and encouraging, reminding them of how much they have accomplished, and what a great person they are. I encourage you to speak to yourself the same way. 

Don’t Compare Yourself

This can be really challenging, and I have to remind myself of it constantly too! Whenever I find myself getting into a comparison mindset, I quickly shift gears and just like I would to my best friends, I practice focusing on my good qualities, accomplishments, and talk myself up. 

One method is to focus on my strengths — I’m resourceful, good at building community, and ambitious. I recite affirmations — I love who I am and who I’m becoming. I am so lucky, everything manifests easily for me. I am worthy of my goals and dreams. The universe is always working in my favor. And, I also like to applaud my own wins — I’m a business owner and growing my business each day! I have my master’s degree from Columbia! I have a supportive community and my health! 

Take Care of Yourself

Mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. At the end of the day, no job, relationship, or situation is worth you deteriorating your health over. Don’t take care of yourself once you’ve burned out — make it a habit and part of your routine instead. The same way you show up for your besties, show up for yourself. Listen to your body’s needs and honor them.

I’ve also made it part of my routine to do something for myself solo because I want to do it! A hobby, a class, a trip to the farmer’s market, or even solo dining. Learning to appreciate my own company has been a game changer over the years, because although I’m alone, I don’t physically feel lonely. I am enough, and this is your reminder, that so are you. Now go show yourself all the love you deserve to have!

If you like this post, you may also like 5 Ways to Show Up for Yourself.

XoXo,