8 things you can do to be comfortable in your own skin

You’re sick of that inner critic taking over your life, putting you down and telling you are just not good enough.

You spend a lot of your time comparing yourself to others and not coming up to scratch.

You worry too much about what other people think and people-pleasing is your thing.

But do you know that you are capable of changing your mindset and become content with who you are right now?

Here are 8 things you can do to be comfortable in your own skin.

1) Set boundaries

Establishing boundaries is a fundamental aspect of self-care and self-respect. It is about defining and communicating what you are comfortable with and where you draw the line.

This can apply to your time, energy, emotional investment, and even your physical space.

We all have different limits based on past experiences, current situations, and personal values. It’s essential to take some time for introspection to understand what you’re comfortable with and what drains or overwhelms you.

While it might seem counterintuitive, setting boundaries can actually improve relationships. When we are aware of and respect each other’s boundaries, it reduces the potential for misunderstandings and conflicts. It promotes mutual respect and understanding.

2) Stop the comparison game

Comparing yourself to others will only lead to disappointment and self-doubt.

Everyone is on their own journey with different challenges and timelines. Instead of focusing on others, concentrate on your personal growth and celebrate your own achievements.

3) Learn to understand yourself and accept yourself as you are

Start by acknowledging and understanding your strengths, weaknesses, dreams, fears, and everything that makes you unique.

This is about embracing who you are without judging yourself. Remember, we all have flaws and imperfections, which is part of being human.

4) Practice saying “No”

It can be challenging, especially if you’re used to pleasing others. However, saying “no” is a powerful tool in maintaining your boundaries. Remember, saying “no” doesn’t mean you’re being selfish; it means you’re taking care of your wellbeing.

Once you understand your boundaries, the next step is to communicate them clearly. It doesn’t mean being confrontational, but rather, it’s about expressing your needs and preferences in a straightforward manner, ensuring that others are aware and respect them.

Constantly saying “yes” can lead to overwhelm and burnout. By setting boundaries, you ensure that you’re not spreading yourself too thin and can maintain emotional equilibrium.

5) Be your own best friend

Be kind and understanding to yourself, especially during tough times. Instead of being your harshest critic, become your own best friend.

This might involve daily affirmations, practicing mindfulness or journaling. Remember, it’s also okay to seek help when needed.

Embrace all that you are, imperfections included, because there’s only one you in this vast universe.

6) Practice self-care regularly

It’s not just about bubble baths or spa days, although those are great too!

Self-care is about taking deliberate actions to care for your mental, emotional, and physical health. This can range from eating nutritious food, getting regular exercise, taking breaks when needed, to engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Moving your body always helps to shift any negative vibes. It can be dancing in your living room, a brisk walk, or even hitting the gym.

Prioritizing self-care helps you recharge and rejuvenates your spirit. When you consistently take care of yourself, you naturally feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin.

7) Continue to learn and grow

It’s essential to recognize that as you grow and change, your boundaries might shift too. What was acceptable to you a few years ago might not be now, and vice versa.

As you journey through life and grow, it’s natural that your perspectives and preferences may change. What resonated with you in the past might differ from how you feel now.

It’s always a good idea to pause, reflect, and adjust to the ever-changing you.

8) Surround yourself with positive influences

The environment and the people you surround yourself with play a significant role in how you feel about yourself. Distance yourself from negative or toxic influences and instead gravitate towards people who uplift, understand, and support you.

Final words

Being comfortable in your own skin is more than just a state of mind; it’s a way of life. It involves recognizing and valuing our inherent worth, even amidst the cacophony of external judgments and our own internal critiques.

Being comfortable in your own skin doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a continuous journey of self-awareness, self-love, and self-respect.

It’s about understanding that for you to be the best version of yourself for others, you first need to be the best version for yourself. This requires being mindful of your needs, desires, and limits, and making sure they are respected and met.

It’s crucial to know what you can tolerate and what you cannot. Setting boundaries helps protect your self-worth and prevents you from overextending yourself. It means prioritizing your own wellbeing and standing up for yourself. Saying “no” when needed is a sign of self-respect.

By focusing on self-awareness, avoiding harmful comparisons, setting clear boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and surrounding ourselves with positive influences, we can build a foundation of self-love and confidence.

As we navigate the challenges and triumphs of life, it’s essential to remember that our self-worth isn’t determined by external validations but by our own acceptance and love for ourselves.

Embracing who we truly are paves the way for not only personal contentment but also for richer, more genuine connections with others.

After all, it’s only when we are comfortable in our own skin that we can be the best version of ourselves.