7 Ways To Practice Self Love Even On Hard Days
Self love is essential, but it’s often challenging. When life throws challenges your way, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or even disconnected from yourself. That’s when self-love matters most.
So, how to practice self love on hard days? It’s our question of the day.
On challenging days, practicing self-compassion isn’t about grand gestures or spa days. It’s about the small, intentional actions that remind you that you matter.
By showing yourself kindness, even in the midst of life’s chaos, you can shift your mindset, build emotional resilience, and find strength to keep moving forward.
Let’s talk about some powerful ways to practice self-love that don’t require a lot of time or effort—but can make a huge difference when you’re feeling low. These self love tips will help you nurture your mind, body, and soul, even when life feels overwhelming.
One small step at a time.
#1. Start With Positive Affirmations
If you haven’t done affirmations, I want you to start doing it from now onwards.
When negative self-talk creeps in, counter it with positive affirmations.
You are not alone.
It happens to all of us.
There are days when we get negative about everything. And, those are the moments when you have to remind yourself to stay positive and breathe. Your priority is you and you have to make it clear.
These simple, empowering statements help shift your focus from self-criticism to self-compassion.
Examples of affirmations to try:
- “I am enough, just as I am.”
- “I choose to focus on progress, not perfection.”
- “I deserve love and happiness.”
Tip: Say your affirmations out loud in front of a mirror to amplify their effect. Repeat them daily, especially during tough moments.
#2. Take a Mindful Break
Let me ask…
When did you give yourself a break last time?
Challenging days can easily take a toll on your mind, leaving you feeling drained. That’s why it’s so important to hit pause and bring yourself back to the present.
Mindfulness practices help reduce stress and foster self-awareness, making it easier to treat yourself kindly.
How to take a mindful break:
- Sit quietly for 5–10 minutes and focus on your breath.
- Try a guided meditation app like Calm or Headspace.
- Go for a short walk and pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you.
- Leave your current environment and try a new place.
Mindful breaks can help you reset your emotions and approach challenges with clarity.
#3. Create a Self-Love Ritual
A regular self-love routine can remind you to prioritize yourself even on tough days. This doesn’t have to be elaborate—simple, consistent actions can have a big impact.
You don’t have to do anything fancy. Adopt a simple self love ritual that you can easily practice at the comfort of your home.
Examples of self-love rituals:
- A relaxing bubble bath with soothing music.
- Journaling about three things you’re grateful for.
- Lighting a favorite candle while reading a book.
Find what soothes your soul and turn it into a regular practice.
#4. Write To Your Self
Do you remember writing yourself a love letter?
I highly doubt it.
It’s an easy way to embrace self love and appreciate yourself. Reflect on your strengths, achievements, and the qualities you admire about yourself.
In all this busy era, you can only practice self love when you really want to.
Go on and write a letter to yourself.
Here are some ideas to include in your love letter;
- Compliments about your personality or skills.
- Acknowledgment of recent challenges you’ve overcome.
- Words of encouragement for future goals.
- Small wins and achievements.
Keep this letter with you and read it on days when you feel low.
#5. Nourish Your Body With Healthy Foods
It’s easy to grab a junk food and eat it on busy days. But, you are doing more bad to your body, and energy levels. It’s not healthy and not good at all.
The best you can do is to treat your body with healthy comfort foods.
You like it or not but that’s how your prioritize your self over other things.
Simple ideas for healthy comfort foods:
- Warm oatmeal with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey.
- A bowl of hearty vegetable soup.
- Oatmeal bars.
- Fresh fruit bowl.
- Chia seed pudding.
- Dark chocolate paired with herbal tea.
Eating well is an act of self-care that reminds your body it’s worth taking care of.
You can also do these quick 5-minute self care ideas when you are busy.
#6. Learn to Say NO Without Feeling Guilty
Practicing self-love often means protecting your energy by setting boundaries. Saying “no” to unnecessary commitments can help you prioritize your well-being.
In our society and culture, we are often trained to say YES to everything. To please everyone around us. To do extraordinary for your family, and friends. To work endlessly to meet everyday lists. To be available for calls and messages every time.
In all this, you are tiring yourself.
You have no time for yourself.
That is why it’s important to set boundaries and learn to say NO when needed.
How to set healthy boundaries:
- Politely decline tasks or invitations that feel overwhelming.
- Limit your time on social media if it adds stress.
- Communicate your needs clearly.
- Make a clear list of tasks and do not overburden yourself.
Remember, saying no to others is saying yes to yourself.
#7. Practice Self-Compassion
Practicing self-compassion also means giving yourself permission to feel your emotions without judgment.
It’s okay to feel sad, frustrated, or anxious.
Instead of suppressing those feelings, acknowledge them and offer yourself comfort.
It begins with changing how you respond to your own struggles. Instead of criticizing yourself when you make mistakes or fall short, take a moment to pause and reflect.
Remind yourself that it’s perfectly normal to face setbacks—no one is perfect, and failure is simply part of being human.
Treat yourself how you would treat your friends, and loved ones. You deserve it all!
Start small. Begin by offering yourself grace when things don’t go as planned. With practice, self-compassion will become a natural part of your daily life, bringing you closer to the best version of yourself.
Practicing self-love on hard days is about progress, not perfection. You don’t have to do everything listed above but take a start.
Remember, self-love is a journey—be patient with yourself and celebrate every step forward.
How do you practice self-love? Share your ideas in the comments. I’d love to know 🙂
