Self-Love Habits
Self-love is a daily practice, not a destination. Restoring Hope Counseling therapists in Houston share evidence-backed habits that build genuine self-worth from the inside out.
Self-love has been marketed as an outcome — something you arrive at after enough affirmations and therapy and bubble baths. But at Restoring Hope Counseling in Houston, we see it differently: self-love is a practice, not a destination. It's the accumulation of small, intentional choices that gradually shift how you relate to yourself — especially on the days when you don't feel particularly lovable. In this post, therapist Desiree Castaneda shares practical habits that build genuine self-worth from the inside out.
Here are some Self-Love Habits to try:
1. Schedule alone time.
It's easy to lose ourselves in relationships, work, and the hard times we face. Enjoy whatever it is you like doing by yourself. Love your own company and learn to listen to your needs. Examples: go to your favorite restaurant, go see a new movie, do your self-care, complete your to-do list, organize your space to your liking, etc.
2. Practice Gratitude.
A way to practice gratitude is by introducing gratitude journaling into your weekly schedule. A few times a week set aside 10-20 minutes to focus on journaling on what you are grateful for and why in detail. Try to put a different thing you are grateful for in each entry. Practicing gratitude helps to shift a negative mindset and bring appreciation to the things in your life you love.
3. Find a hobby.
Explore your interests and do something you love. Get creative, whether it's something you used to do or something you've always wanted to try. Find an activity, interest, or pastime you can do in your downtime. To name a few: hiking, reading, baking, yoga, painting, kickboxing, dancing, rollerblading, and so on. Hobbies can encourage self-development, socialization, break up stuck routines, and boredom.
4. Laugh.
“A good laugh heals a lot of hurts.” — Madeleine L’Engle
Laughter can bring joy and shift a bad day. Watch funny videos online, scroll on TikTok, watch your favorite comedian, or put on a comedy film/TV series. Gain the ability to find laughter and joy in yourself and by yourself. This can then lead you to surround yourself with people who make you laugh
“The most important relationship you have is with yourself” -unknown
