It is said that it takes 21 days to form a habit. I don’t know if there is any evidence to back that up, and I am sure that some things take longer than others. But what I do know, is that repetition works. You know the term “fake it till you make it”? Well, that was my exact mindset when I first started on my journey to self-love. In fact, “love” was not even close to a term I would use to describe how I felt. But I was so tired of the self-loathing and figured that I could at least *try* and pretend like there was love. And through “faking” it each day, I started to like things about myself a little bit more and eventually could say I loved myself. Do I still have hard days? Heck yes, I do. But I believe that self-love is a constant practice. Even on the hard days, and the bad days, and the days you just aren’t feeling it. You have to get up and do it anyway.

That is why I put together the You Should Go and Love Yourself Challenge. 30 days, 30 activities. Things that are simple to do and most only take a few minutes of your day. I want you to become your own best friend and biggest champion. Each day I will be sending out some more ways that I practice self-love (so sign up for my email list!) and of course, you can find me doing Daily Affirmations on Instagram.

Day 1: Write yourself a letter full of the things you like about yourself

This can be a tough exercise, but I want you to think hard and write down at least one thing you like or love about yourself. I know you can do it!

Day 2: Practice Deep Breathing

Deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower stress levels in the body. Breathing exercises are a great way to relax, reduce tension, and anxiety.

Day 3: Write down 5 things that made you happy today

Even on the hardest of days, good things happen. Think back on your day and recall what made you happy today. Bonus: Start a journal and do this each day.

Day 4: Enjoy the Sunshine!

Sunshine is so good for your soul! The fresh are is too, get outside and enjoy the warmth and extra Vitamin D

Day 5: Say NO and simplify your to-do list

It’s hard to say no, but go through your list and eliminate anything that you don’t absolutely have to do, that is bringing you stress. Take at least 1 thing off.

Day 6: Make your favorite dinner

Don’t be afraid of comfort food! And if you don’t like to cook, take yourself out!

Day 7: Have Coffee or Lunch with a good friend

Give that person that you can lean on, vent to, and laugh with a call. I bet they could use the visit too!

Day 8: Buy yourself fresh flowers or a plant

I know it’s cliche, but it is that way for a reason. Having fresh flowers or plants in your home is an easy way to add a little bright spot.

Day 9: Put your phone on Airplane mode

This one can be really hard, pick a day where you know you won’t be needed and take some time to truly unplug. Try and do it for for at least 1 hour

Day 10: Start your day with 5 minutes of Meditation

Meditation is my number one anxiety fighter. It can also be great for making decisions or trying to make big changes. Whatever you need, manifest it in meditation. There are great apps out there like Calm and Headspace that have guided meditations you can listen to for free.

Day 11: Read a chapter in a new book

Have you picked up a book recently? Go to the library or book store, and pick out a new one, then make sure to read at least one chapter today.

Day 12: Compliment someone you see today

It may seem strange, but one great way to encourage a love for yourself is to share it with someone else.

Day 13: Buy that “thing” you’ve been wanting

Just do it already! Buy the outfit, the shoes, the new sheets. If you can’t buy it right now, budget to save up for it and make a commitment not to spend that money on something else.

Day 14: Watch Your Favorite Movie

You know that one you love, that gives you goosies or makes you laugh until you cry every time. Watch it today.

Day 15: Make a Bucket List and Hang it on your fridge

Write down the things you have been dreaming of! Hang it somewhere you can see it every day.

Day 16: Take yourself to your favorite restaurant

Treat yourself to some me time or make it a date night, and go grab your favorite meal or dessert.

Day 17: Schedule yourself a day off or “me” day

You may not be able to take a break today, but schedule a day on your calendar where you can do whatever you want.

Day 18: Have a dance party

Turn that music up and dance like nobody is watching! I know you have it in you to shake it good!

Day 19: Throw away old junk or papers

We all have that drawer or cabinet, the one we don’t even open because it’s like insta-stress. Go through it today and throw away all that you can. Get that clutter out of the way.

Day 20: Wear something that makes you feel good

It may be a certain color, your new swimsuit, or a dress, those jeans that make you feel like a million bucks, the shoes you wore on your wedding day. Pull it out of your closet and wear it.

Day 21: Do an act of service

It doesn’t have to be anything big, but do something for someone else today

Day 22: Get a Massage or Spa Service

Completely relax, let someone else pamper you today

Day 23: Create Something

draw, color, paint, sculpt, film, capture, write – whatever art form you most prefer, let your creative side out.

Day 24: Look in the mirror and verbalize what you love about body

Look yourself in the eye and speak kindly about yourself. Your body is capable and beautiful, in so many ways. Take time to compliment yourself.

Day 25: Embrace your Failures

We weren’t meant to be perfect, take those “failures” and reframe them as growth and learning experience.

Day 26: Set a new, realistic goal

Write down something you want to accomplish, and the steps you need to take to get there. Measurable and attainable goals are healthy, set a goal within those boundaries. Self love is always working toward what makes you truly happy.

Day 27: Forgive Yourself and Let go of Guilt

Like Elsa said, LET IT GO

Day 28: Pay it Forward

Pay for someone else’s coffee, leave a dollar in your Redbox case, or put the carts back in the parking lot of the grocery store. These simple actions can make the biggest difference.

Day 29: Write a letter forgiving someone who hurt you

You don’t have to give it to them (unless you want to) but get those feelings out. If you don’t have someone to write too, or you aren’t ready for that, write the letter forgiving yourself.

Day 30: Do something outside your comfort zone and CELEBRATE

Challenge yourself! You’ve come this far, let’s see how far you can go. Now CELEBRATE!! You did it!!

Loving yourself in a society that tells us to do otherwise, is no easy task. 30 days may not be all the time you need, but it’s a start! And I hope that you will share your journey with me! Tag your posts with #youshouldgoandloveyourself.