The founder of therapeutic programs and schools, L. Jay Mitchell has owned three highly successful residential programs for adolescents, such as Greenbrier Academy for Girls in West Virginia. L. Jay Mitchell also wrote “Decide Now; The Good Life or the Best Life” to share the importance of building relationships with others and yourself in both his book and at Greenbrier.
The following are several keys to creating and maintaining a healthy relationship with yourself:
1. Recognize negative self-talk
For many of us, the voice in our heads does more harm than good. It claims that we aren’t strong enough or good enough for certain situations or people. This is negative self-talk, and recognizing it is the first step toward building a strong relationship with yourself. Once negative self-talk is more easily recognized, people can change or challenge the dialogue in their heads.
2. Be kind to yourself
Exercising regularly, getting a massage, and watching what one eats boosts self-confidence and improves self-care. Treating the body with kindness in this way helps people naturally love themselves over time. They will also notice that their body loves them back in the form of more energy, less pain, and other physical benefits.
3. Practice forgiveness
It might seem that holding onto grudges doesn’t affect someone, but it actually robs them of their peace. Forgiveness releases the burden of anger and lets people free themselves of energy that is not serving them. With forgiveness comes peace, and with this peace, people feel more love for themselves.
