Being kind and compassionate and willing to take care of others are wonderful traits to have. But in order to life a happy and healthy life, you have to remember to take care of yourself along the way. Cutting toxic people out of your life, practicing self-love, and giving back to your community can help foster a more positive environment around you.

Here are 10 things you need to start doing for yourself:

1. Be Grateful

It’s important to remember to count your blessings, especially when things aren’t going your way. Many of us forget how much we have to be thankful for when we come to a hiccup in the road. When you practice gratitude on a daily basis, you’ll begin to notice all of the wonderful things in your life you have to be grateful for.

2. Laugh

As the saying goes, “laughter is the best medicine.” Never underestimate the power of letting loose, spending time with loved ones and laughing until you cry. Laughter can be a therapeutic way to relieve stress and turn your day around.

laugh for yourself

3. Spend Time Outdoors

For many people, nature has healing powers Spending time outdoors can help you learn to slow down, relax and appreciate the natural beauty around you. Take a walk through the park, go for a hike or a bike ride, or have a picnic in the grass.

4. Show Yourself Some Self-Love

Sometimes, all you need is a little self-love to make your bad days better and give you a more positive outlook on life. Make some time for yourself! Do something you’ve always wanted to do, turn your alarm off and sleep in, get takeout from your favorite restaurant or treat yourself to a day at the spa!

show yourself some love

5. Live In The Moment

There’s nothing wrong with setting goals and making plans for the future, but don’t let the present pass you by. Make a conscious decision to focus on living your best life here and now. Take the time to slow down, appreciate the world around you and enjoy every new experience.

6. Know Your Boundaries

Never let someone else talk you into doing something you aren’t comfortable with. Let others know your boundaries. Sometimes you need to stand up for yourself and say “no” in order to stay true to who you are.

give yourself boundaries

7. Don’t Be Afraid To Feel

Having emotions doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you’re human. So don’t be afraid to let it out. Cry when you need to, scream if you have to. Allow yourself to work through the pain, instead of trying to hold it all in.

8. Share Your Blessings

If you’re fortunate enough to have a roof over your head, a warm bed to sleep in and food to eat, share your blessings. Volunteer in your community. Donate things you don’t need. Your compassion can end up making a huge difference in someone else’s life.

share your blessings

9. Avoid Toxic Situations

If you find yourself around toxic people or a toxic environment, the best thing to do to is to remove yourself from the situation. This often means cutting people out of your life. Be strong enough to know when to move on, to facilitate a happy and healthy environment for yourself.

10. Slow Down

Life can get so chaotic and hectic at times, we get to the point where we aren’t enjoying any of it. Remember to slow down. Breathe. Take care of yourself, spend time with the people you love, laugh, travel and enjoy the ride. It goes by quicker than you think.

Sources:
Power of Positivity
Help Guide
Psychology Today