4 EASY WAYS TO RESPECT YOURSELF MORE
December 29, 2014
It may feel as if you're hard-wired to be polite and kind to everyone except yourself. However, there are exercises you can do to retrain your brain and give yourself some hard-earned respect. Here are four easy ones to get you started:
1. TAKE PEN TO PAPER. Write down at least one win each day. When you find yourself struggling, go back and read the log of wins. This will help instill confidence and help you over the hurdle.
2. PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE. Feeling stressed or down on yourself? You can actually change your biochemistry in two minutes or less by doing this: Simply put a hand over your heart, close your eyes and take at least 10 breaths, allowing yourself to feel safe and nurtured.
3. ACKNOWLEDGE EMOTIONS & THOUGHTS. If you hear yourself spewing negative thoughts, stop them in their tracks and recognize them by thinking, "That was harsh."The act of calling out thoughts and emotions can actually decrease the power they have over you and not allow them to sabotage your success.
4. ADOPT A MANTRA. Create a respectful mantra such as "I'm going to be kind to myself in this moment"and repeat it as often as you need to throughout the day. Having a short phrase ready whenever and wherever you need it will also help keep your priorities straight.
Jennifer is a lifelong athlete who has spent the last 15 years helping other people minimize the impact of their life stressors through exercise, nutrition, and self-care. She has a degree in Sociology from the University of Colorado and a Master's degree from the Smith College School For Social Work. Jennifer has worked in hospitals, schools, mental health clinics, and private practice. She co-owns a health club in DC and always strives to set a good example for her three daughters.
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