So often we hear people talk about expanding that network, cultivating relationships, but never enough about the most important relationship in our lives: the one with ourselves. If you have been focusing more on the external factors in your life, we encourage you to stop from time to time to practice self-care and develop a better relationship with yourself. Don't know where to start? We have the antidote... Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Setting an overall goal for yourself is important so you can identify the path you are following and understand why you are doing it. If you're not sure what your deepest desires are, journaling and therapy are great vehicles for becoming more self-aware and understanding the why behind your actions. We all know by now that there are times when life beats us – this “overall goal” will remind you to keep doing what needs to be done. Nobody is perfect: Even seemingly perfect people have insecurities. There's not much you can do about what you don't like about yourself (unless you opt for plastic surgery, but even then there are bigger underlying issues); however, you can learn to accept those flaws and love yourself. Remember, those who accept themselves exude confidence and beauty inside and out, and as a result end up attracting more positive experiences. When you enjoy doing something and feel confident doing it, you are probably exercising your strengths. However, if you don't enjoy doing something, there is probably an opportunity for improvement. Knowing your weaknesses is just as important as knowing your strengths so you can ask for help in those areas. It will make your life a million times easier and allow you to focus on what you do best. When you have a strong relationship with yourself, you don't need validation for your actions, your appearance, or your situation. life. Living in an era where everything appears perfect at the touch of a screen can bring out our deepest insecurities... We start comparing, obsessing, and nitpicking. These are all forms of external and unnecessary validation… Refocus on your efforts to build a solid foundation for yourself and there will be no more need for “validation.” Embrace the stillness. Being alone without distractions allows you to clear your mind, focus, and think more clearly. It also helps you discover things about yourself that you may never have realized, which is so important when we live in a world that feeds us information after information. There is so much relief in unplugging and relaxing! Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay It may not be possible to always put yourself first, but don't neglect your needs. Putting yourself first means listening to your body and doing what it tells you, whether that's sleeping early, exercising more, eating nutrient-rich foods, or spending quiet time. It also involves external factors such as ending abusive and/or unhealthy relationships and closing the circle of those who take advantage of you. Works CitedDweck, C.S. (2008). Mindset: the new psychology of success. Random House.Hayes, S.C., Strosahl, K., & Wilson, K.G. (2012). Acceptance and commitment therapy: The process and practice of conscious change. Guilford Press. Neff, K. D. (2011). Self-compassion: The proven power of being kind to yourself. HarperCollins. Pennebaker, J. W., & Smyth, J. M. (2016). Opening up by writing it down: How expressive writing improves. 495-514)., 50(1), 15-19.