We often hear that taking care of yourself is critical to your wellbeing. It might not seem as obvious, but self-respect is indicative of how you view yourself and consequently take care of yourself. Feeling good about yourself and showing self-respect can be difficult to differentiate… which comes first? Do positive thoughts about yourself lead to self-respect or vice versa? Depending on your own experience, it can vary which of these feels most true to you.
Let’s take a look at how you can increase your self-respect, nurture your worth, and show some self-love.
Building Self-Respect
Consider your own feelings: Your feelings and emotions are just as important as everyone else’s. Take your own feelings into account in your everyday life and the decisions you make. If you’re uncomfortable, listen to what you are thinking and feeling in the moment, and act.
Avoid making self-deprecating comments: Yes, we all do this time to time for the humour and to build rapport. But in reality, what we say about ourselves eventually becomes what we believe to be true. If you’re feeling uncertain about whether or not you treat yourself with respect, try to avoid making any comments that might undermine yourself.
Take care of your emotional needs: Self-respect is apparent through the things you do to make yourself comfortable, happy, and content. If a situation or relationship is constantly making you feel upset or out of balance with your needs/wants, it might be time to re-evaluate the situation, your values, and your boundaries. You owe it to yourself to take care of your emotional needs.
Remind yourself that you deserve respectful treatment: When it comes down to it, you deserve to be treated with respect. Recognize your own value and set boundaries that honour your worth. Reminding yourself of this can help you make decision that align with your needs and wellbeing, reinforcing that you are worthy of kindness and respect.
Engage in activities that you enjoy: What brings you joy? What if you did more of what makes you happy? Whether it’s journaling, going for a walk, or a hobby you’ve put down for a while; try pursuing your interests and the things that bring you joy!
How Self-Respect Supports Mental Wellbeing
Self-respect is a cornerstone of mental well-being. When you honour your boundaries by prioritizing your needs, and choosing actions that align with your values and beliefs, you are practicing self-respect. Doing so creates a foundation for emotional safety, confidence, and belonging. Overtime, these behaviours reinforce a positive self-image and help you build resilience that will help you navigate life’s crazy challenges. By treating yourself with respect, you’re signalling to yourself and others that you are worthy of kindness and care, which will enhance your mental health and sense of fulfillment.
When to Seek Support
While practicing self-respect is important, there are times when seeking additional support is essential. If you find that negative thoughts, unhealthy behaviours, or emotional challenges are interfering with your daily life, it might be time to consider seeking support. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but an act of self-respect! If you feel you might need some support, you can contact us, book an appointment, or schedule a free consultation.
