Becoming Your Best Self

We all face challenges and struggles with our self-image at times; unless you're like me, which is all the time; but remember that you are not alone. Remember that you are beautiful. Remember that the best version of yourself, is lying within; it just needs a little help to get out of there. Here are some tips that help me with my daily struggles:

1. Skincare:

We've heard it a thousand times, "looks aren't everything". And I completely agree. But feeling good in your own skin, is. I can't emphasize it enough, get that skincare routine down pat!! Whether you start incorporating this routine once a week, or maybe once a month; its progress. No matter how little or small, progress is progress baby, and we're one step closer to loving ourselves. Don't know where to start? Here are my all time fav products that will leave your skin, *chef's kiss*:

Do you have a pesky blemish the night before a big day? Throw this bad boy on it overnight after you cleanse your skin, and you'll wake up wondering where it went.

Tell me you're using a paper towel to dry your skin after cleansing, and I may have to whack you upside your head. Kidding. But please ditch the paper towel, ya nasty. These clean towels are thicker than a snicker, unbeatable. And I promise, you will notice a difference in your skin by using these towels.

Dare I say more? Holy grail. Cleanse, tone, snail mucin. PERIOD.

We love a good cleanser. And what better way to kick off your skincare routine, than with CeraVe. Can't live without it.

Tone. Tone. Tone. It may feel like an extra step, but it does wonders. It'll have your skin go from 0 to 100 real quick. With these toner pads, you'll leave them on your face for a few minutes, and then gently wipe away for soothing. I feel refreshed just talking about these.

Finishing strong with this ICONIC moisturizer. I never leave the house without it. It's the sun on a rainy day. It's the pumpkin to my pie. It is everything. One swipe of it on my face and I feel like a million dollars. Korean skincare.. elite.

2. Practice Self-Compassion:

We are our worst critics. Be kind to yourself. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would offer to a dear friend. Acknowledge that it's okay to make mistakes and that they are opportunities for growth.

3. Set Realistic Goals:

Setting goals is essential for personal growth, but it's important to set realistic and achievable ones. Break down your bigger goals into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate your progress along the way, and don't be too hard on yourself if things don't go as planned. It's all part of your journey. Emphasis on the YOUR part. Don't fall victim to this society that makes you believe you need to buy a house yesterday or that you need to drop 30lbs by the end of this week. Realistic goals will lead to your best self.

4. Surround Yourself with Positivity:

Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Seek out positive influences in your life, whether it's friends, family, mentors, or role models. Surrounding yourself with positivity can have a profound impact on your self-image and overall well-being. You're already beating yourself up on a daily basis, don't allow another person to inflict more wounds to the ones that you've already inflicted on yourself.

5. Be active:

Now hear me out. I know the word 'active' can be scary; it keeps me up at night sometimes too, but try to throw in a little walk into your routine. A walk down to the corner of your street, that works. Baby steps. Something that prevented me from taking walks, was my fear of the outside world. The fear that someone would come after me. But I laid that fear to rest after I purchased a taser and some pepper spray. Now I take my walks knowing I can protect myself. After sometime, we can work our way up to a workout routine. I know life gets in the way, whether it's work, or the children need to be catered to; make time for yourself. I promise you'll start to feel good.

6. Challenge Negative Self-Talk:

We all have that inner critic that likes to whisper negative thoughts in our ears. Challenge those negative self-talk patterns and replace them with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your strengths, accomplishments, and the progress you've made. You are capable and deserving of all the good things that come your way. Whether you believe it or not, you ARE worthy of all good things.

7. Take Care of Your Physical Health:

Physical and mental well-being are closely connected. Take care of your body by nourishing it with healthy food, staying hydrated, and again, engaging in regular exercise. Drink your gallon of water. Eat healthy foods that make you feel good. You know what they say, you are what you eat. I can attest to that; when I eat a baked potato, I feel like a baked potato.

8. Cultivate a Growth Mindset:

Adopt a growth mindset, which is the belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. Embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Remember, you are capable of achieving great things with the right mindset.

9. Practice Self-Reflection:

Take time to reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and actions. Self-reflection allows you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your values. It helps you identify areas for improvement and make conscious choices that align with your best self. A great way to practice self-reflection is by journaling. The first step to journaling is finding the perfect journal. I am a HUGE fan of leather journals. I like to believe the leather protects my thoughts that are written within. My current favorite:

10. Be Patient and Kind to Yourself:

Becoming your best self is a lifelong journey. I struggle with it everyday. It's a constant battle that takes time, patience, and dedication. Be kind to yourself when setbacks occur, and remember that progress is not always linear. Trust the process, believe in yourself, and never give up. I'm rooting for you.

Remember, you are not alone in your struggles. We all face moments of self-doubt and insecurity. I hope with these tips and embracing the journey towards self-improvement, can set the wheels in motion of becoming the best version of yourself.