A best friend is someone you can trust with your secrets; they are your shoulder to lean on in tough times, and cheer squad to celebrate the good times. In these strange times, where we often find ourselves separated from our circle of friends and/or loved ones, learning how to be your own best friend is super important. Learning how to be alone and happy is vital.
However, learning to be your own best friend takes practice. It means you must rely on yourself, as the only person for your own comfort, when you need advice, support, or encouragement.
Being your own best friend is the best gift that you can give yourself. Here, five tips to help you out.
1. Start a new relationship with yourself
Sit down in the comfiest space you have, put pen to paper and list all of the things that you love about yourself.
Discover the true authentic person that you are. Pen to paper always works when it’s time to figure things out. You might surprise yourself with thoughts that pop to mind and the things that you discover about yourself, when you let your mind do all the work.
2. Try new things with your best friend (AKA YOU)
Pretend to be a tourist in your local area. Visit the shops, galleries and museums. Hike around a national park near your home. Source out self-awareness or self-empowering workshops, art classes, yoga retreats, any of these will help you realise the true unique person that you are. Being alone and happy is actually a ‘thing’!
3. Take yourself out on a date.
This can be scary but at the same time, fun. Most of us honestly believe that we must rely on the company of others to bring us joy and fun, but to reiterate – being alone and happy is not only possible, it can be joyous. Be comfortable to book a table for one person at a restaurant or café, have a picnic on your own, go to the movies, whatever you believe is the perfect date for your best friend!
Learn to enjoy your own company, and your own thoughts.
4. Treat yourself
The list is endless when it comes to treating yourself, and as your own best friend, you should do this frequently. Do whatever you think is the best for you at the time. Some ideas include;
- Massage
- Shopping
- Ice Cream
- Manicure and Pedicure
- Reiki
- Hairdresser appointment
- Facial
- Do absolutely nothing!
5. Speak Kindly To Yourself
Kind self-talk starts when you decide that you are the most important person in your life and you are perfect just the way you are, right at this very moment. Compliment yourself the same way you would for someone else. You deserve it.
Your best friend is the person you see in the mirror every day. Treat your best friend with the love, respect, and honour that they deserve.
The Carousel would like to thank Trudy Vains for her article.
About Trudy Vains
Trudy Vains is an Author, Yoga Teacher, and Spine Fusion Warrior.
Trudy’s book “Fused” provides inspiration and reassurance to those facing spine surgery, as well as many examples of the importance of a positive mindset in overcoming challenges.
