The new year is here, which is great news, considering that last year, the whole world had to go through a quite traumatic and life-changing pandemic. Many things happened, some of them not-so-good, which is why it would be great to use this year to make yourself more empowered and confident. Sometimes, that is easier said than done, however, some New Year resolutions work better than others, so for that reason, here are some great ideas that will help you step into 2021 feeling more self-confident than ever.
1. Letting go of toxic people in your life
There’s this theory that says “you’re the sum of five people you spend most of your time with”. Meaning, the people you choose to interact with can largely influence your behavior and your mindset. Therefore, it’s important to be picky and choose your friends wisely. If your friends are often rude, dismissive, or plain disrespectful, then they’re not your friends, to begin with. You deserve friends who will treat you right, celebrate your accomplishments and grieve your losses together with you.
Now, with family members might be trickier, since avoiding them isn’t that easy. In that case, it might be better to check out various boundary setting tips before going full no-contact.
2. Letting go of expectations
Some believe that expectations are also the reason for suffering, and in many instances, that as well may be true. When you impose various expectations on yourself and others, you’re also setting yourself up for some disappointments along the way. Of course, having standards, plans and ideas are great, as long as you remain clear-headed and flexible about it. Being optimistic is lovely and can certainly help you feel better, but it’s also important to remain realistic, especially in situations that require you to do so.
3. Becoming more emotionally resilient
Emotional resiliency isn’t the same as not feeling any emotions. On the contrary, you’re always allowed to feel your emotions in their intensity, as long as it doesn’t affect the way you treat others (and yourself). This is a skill that takes practice, so be patient and give yourself time. Learning how to face your fears is a sure way to being a more emotionally resilient person.
4. Get over your insecurities as gently as possible
Insecurities exist for a reason. They make you feel vulnerable and sensitive to rejection and criticism. Therefore, it’s important to get over them, while still being gentle toward yourself. In case you suffer from insecurities related to your physical appearance, then feel free to opt for treatments that will make you feel better, but don’t expect your life to magically transform into a fairy tale.
For example, if you suffer from weak hair, treating yourself to a mesotherapy hair treatment will likely make you more self-assured and confident. The same goes for other treatments, such as facials. However, keep in mind that the work you do on the outside, should be aligned with your inner work, because only then you’ll be able to live in harmony and peace.
5. Changing the way you talk to yourself
Your self-talk matters because it reveals the way you see yourself in various situations. If this makes you feel a bit puzzled, think of the last time you dropped or spilled something. What was your reaction? Did you chastise yourself? Or were you gentle and understanding? Throughout childhood, we often used to get reprimanded for accidentally making a mistake. Then we tend to internalize that way of talking like adults, which is why there are so many people who talk to themselves badly.
Instead, find a way to heal your inner child, as that will likely help you create a strong and positive self-image.
6. Radiating self-love all the time
For some, self-love is facemasks and Netflix. Even though there’s nothing wrong with a bit of relaxation, it’s essential to say that self-love is so much more than that. Self-love is being kind when we’re tired. It’s also understanding that bad days and experiences don’t determine your self-worth. Learning to love yourself might be a challenging process, but it’s definitely worth it.
Still, with self-love comes the realization that not many people share this sentiment. That’s why it’s important to radiate self-love at all times. Otherwise, you might risk attracting people who may profit from your lack of it, and this is something you must avoid at all costs.
Final thoughts
This year is a lovely way to start a new. But, before you start making grand plans, make sure to check in with yourself first. Planning trips, projects and activities is great, but so is being empowered and resilient. The above-mentioned ideas will definitely help you become the person of your dreams, however, in order to reach true happiness, also remember to treat others kindly along the way.