The modern world makes it way too easy to forget your own worth (or convince yourself that you’re somehow lacking or falling short).
Whether it’s work, relationships, or just the daily grind, it can feel like you’re constantly giving to everyone else without taking a moment to acknowledge your own importance. The truth is, you do matter, and it’s crucial to remind yourself of that regularly. Here are a few small ways you can practise self-appreciation every day and reinforce just how valuable you are. You deserve it!
1. Start your day with a positive affirmation.
Those first few moments after you open your eyes can set the tone for your entire day. Choose a simple statement that lifts you up, like “I am valuable” or “I deserve good things.” It might feel a bit awkward the first time you say it out loud, but think of it as a mental nudge that guides you towards a more positive outlook. Even a quick, whispered phrase can help you remember that you have worth, no matter what the day throws at you.
2. Take a moment to breathe.
When the world feels chaotic, pausing to focus on your breath can be surprisingly calming. Close your eyes, inhale slowly through your nose, then let the air out through your mouth. As you do this, imagine you’re clearing mental clutter and refilling your energy tank. It’s a quick method to centre yourself, particularly when your stress levels start climbing.
3. Celebrate your small wins.
It’s easy to focus on tasks you didn’t finish or moments where you think you fell short. Try flipping the script by acknowledging what you did achieve, no matter how minor. Maybe you organised your inbox or managed a tricky chat with a colleague. Each tiny step forward is a success that deserves a quick pat on the back.
4. Write down one thing you’re proud of.
At the close of the day, grab a pen and jot down at least one thing that made you feel good about yourself. It could be something straightforward like tackling a chore you’ve been putting off, or something bigger like resolving a personal challenge. Research cited by The Guardian suggests that writing down feelings can be beneficial for mental and emotional health, so this habit has more than one payoff.
5. Surround yourself with reminders.
Try decorating your space with quotes that remind you you’re important, or keep photos of happy memories around your home or workspace. These small cues can snap you out of negative self-talk and bring you back to a place of self-respect.
Maybe you have a souvenir from a holiday where you felt especially content, or a piece of art that always makes you smile. Place these items in areas where you’ll see them often, like by your computer screen or next to your kettle—so you’ll get frequent little nudges that you’re loved and worthy.
6. Take time for yourself.
There’s nothing self-centred about carving out moments that are purely for your own well-being. Whether that’s reading a chapter of a book, going for a walk in the fresh air, listening to your favourite music, or trying your hand at a creative project, the key is to make it a deliberate part of your day. You’ll likely notice a boost in your mood once you allow yourself that space.
7. Treat yourself with kindness.
It’s astonishing how harshly we can treat ourselves in our internal chatter. When you catch yourself spiralling into negative self-talk—maybe criticising your appearance or scolding yourself for a mistake—take a pause. Replace those unkind words with something more patient and understanding. It might feel unnatural at first, but with practice, a supportive inner voice can become second nature.
8. Remind yourself of your past accomplishments.
It’s easy to lose sight of just how many obstacles you’ve already navigated in life. Whether it’s a past work dilemma, a health scare, or a tough emotional period, you’ve endured and come out the other side with more understanding and strength. Taking a moment to recall these moments can remind you that you’re far more resilient than you might give yourself credit for.
9. Speak to yourself like you would speak to someone you love.
When you’re feeling down on yourself, pause for a moment and imagine you’re speaking to someone you care about deeply. If they were in your shoes, what would you say to them? Most of us would show understanding and reassure them that one off day doesn’t define their entire worth. It might sound basic, but sometimes flipping your perspective is all it takes to spark a bit of self-compassion.
10. Set a boundary for your mental and emotional health.
Saying “no” can be tricky, especially if you’re used to putting everybody else first. But establishing personal limits is a powerful way to confirm you take your emotional well-being seriously. Maybe it means declining an after-work outing when you need downtime, or turning off your phone for half an hour of peace. By placing boundaries, you send a clear message to yourself: you’re worthy of protection and respect.
11. Make a gratitude list.
Each evening, think of at least three things that made you thankful that day. Maybe you enjoyed a laugh with a friend, caught a beautiful sunset, or cooked a tasty dinner. This practice not only shifts your focus to what’s working in your life, but it also reinforces the idea that you play a part in these good moments. Even being present for them is worth recognising.
12. Practise self-compassion.
When things don’t go as planned, don’t beat yourself up. Instead, show yourself compassion. Acknowledge that you’re doing the best you can, and it’s okay to make mistakes. We’re all human, and you matter just as much as anyone else, mistakes and all.
13. Spend time with people who build you up.
You’re heavily shaped by the people in your life. If your social circle includes those who show genuine appreciation for you and encourage you to see your own worth, that positivity will rub off. On the other hand, if you spend too much time around toxic influences, it’s easy to start feeling down about yourself. Look for—or continue bonding with—people who cheer you on.
14. Acknowledge your feelings.
Whatever you’re feeling—whether it’s joy, frustration, sadness, or excitement—acknowledge it without judgement. You deserve to feel your emotions, and they matter. Just by validating your feelings, you’re sending the message to yourself that you’re important, and your emotional wellness is worth tending to.
