How to Style and Decorate your Dinner Table Like a Pro

January 17, 2021

Sharing meals with family and friends is a blessing we don’t often appreciate. It’s these special times that make our weekdays more bearable. Add these following touches to your dinner table and make the day even more memorable for everyone.

By Mariam Elhamy

Step 1. Choose a Color Scheme

Choose a united color for the tablecloth and base dishes for the other elements to stand out and add a pattern of florals, brightly colored glasses or play with bold graphic patterns.

Step 2. Something Old. Something New

When choosing the tableware, mix and match detailed vintage prints and clean and neutral modern items. This might be a bit difficult at first, but it adds a playful, chic element to your table. Pair vintage gold knives and forks with wooden and marble dishes.

Focus on the little details, like tying the cutlery into a bundle with ribbon or string. Bonus: Add a sprig of rosemary or sweet basil to the bundle to give a wonderful flair.

Step 3. Serving plates

Classy wicker trays and small baskets for serving food and drinks really go a long way. Use glass jugs to serve juice, ice tea or water and add slices of lemon, mint, rose petals or any colorful fruit you have for a fresher look.

Step 4. Flowers

Depending on your occasion and color scheme pick the colors that suit it best. As for the arrangement, either a single flower in an elegant vase or an oversized bouquet spilling from a vessel.

If you don’t want to go with a floral arrangement, add candles or small lanterns.

Step. 5 Props

Decorate the table with colorful eye-catching seasonal fruits or vegetables, some driftwood, or seashells from the beach. Succulents in small rustic pots are really cute as well.

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Why They Left Without an Explanation

January 17, 2021

We often wonder what we did wrong and why our relationship went south. People keep telling you it’s no use crying over spilled milk, they left you and you should move on but it’s just not comforting knowing you could have done something.

This lack of closure keeps you restless at night and here are some questions you need to ask yourself.

By Mariam Elhamy

Did you make them feel appreciated or loved often enough?

Were you too inside your own world that you took them for granted? People like to feel appreciated especially from those who are close to them. Appreciation can be as easy as saying thank you or you are an amazing person and I feel blessed to have you.

Did you become the person you always promised you won’t be?

Maybe you brought out their insecurities and made them feel unsafe. Maybe the relationship became too stale. Break the boredom with surprises, warm gestures and more happy moments.

Were you open about your emotions and future plans?

They may have felt that they weren’t included in your plans anymore. Maybe you left things unclear and they felt that you were never serious about them.

Have you made them feel supported at all times?

Were there certain circumstances when you weren’t there for them? These are the times where your partner ask themselves if you’ll really be by their side when things don’t go well or if you’ll turn a blind eye. When trust is broken it’s very hard to restore.

Did you give them enough attention when they needed it?

Not everyone can express how they feel easily but think back on occasions when your partner needed your attention but there was a huge emotional distance between you.

Where did your fights get you?

Were you in a better place after the fight or were things still shaky? Did you leave them hurting for days on end without an explanation? If the relationship brought them more sadness than happiness then it’s not a wonder they left. You have to know your partner’s love language and understand how to act when they’re upset.

What is your love language?

Did you inspire or encourage them to be a better person? Did they?

Maybe you both provoked the worst side of your personality. Perhaps it’s because you were never compatible.

Did you make them feel alone in the relationship?

They probably felt that they were doing more effort than they’re getting from you. How can you tell if you hadn’t done enough? Ask yourself was there a time when you were happier in the relationship? What changed? How did you deal with that change?

Did you make them feel loved the way they deserved to be?

They probably tried to show you but you just didn’t notice. Whether you were too selfish or too engrossed in your own life, you missed the fact that there were many signs that the relationship is coming to an end. Try to become a better listener in the future and acknowledge their feelings.

Relationships are hard work and the reason you had to read this article should be mainly so that you can focus on moving on and learning from your past mistakes so that you can improve your future relationships and your future self.

Why Your Relationship Didn’t Work and Whether to Fight for It

6 Immunity Boosting Spices to Help Keep you Healthy

January 14, 2021

By: Aliaa ElSherbini

It’s officially winter as the weather goes below 20 degrees in the morning and hits single digits at night. In addition to being winter, the world is fighting a pandemic, urging us to be twice as careful and well feed to keep healthy. coronavirus

And part of staying healthy is by fueling your body with immunity-boosting and antioxidant herbs and spices. Here is a list of 6 herbs and spices that you can add to your meals and drinks to boost your immunity system and cleanse your organs.

Cinnamon

In addition to its aromatic richness and delicious flavor, cinnamon contains medicinal properties that boost the immunity system and fight infections.

Other than using it in cookies and baked goods, try using cinnamon sticks in warm drinks like teas, coffees or just keep it on its own. You can also use the powder in your oatmeal, yogurt, fruits, or even rice. coronavirus

Ginger

Ginger has been used since forever to cure a common cold and the flu due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant features that help our immune system fight viruses and bacteria. covid 19

It is good for the throat as well as preventing respiratory tract infections, which is what is needed to fight off the current virus. coronavirus

Add ginger powder to your morning tea, as well as your meals and soups (try ginger and carrot soup for a zesty lunch, or make a warm drink with lemon and honey). You can also use whole ginger while cooking in broths and sauces.

Turmeric

You might not prefer its taste, but this spice, made from curcumin, has powerful antioxidant agents that boost immunity, improves digestion, bone health, and reduces the risk of heart diseases. covid 19

Use it while cooking, or to have it concentrated by adding it to your milk for maximum benefits.

Cumin

Cumin contains antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory features in addition to vitamin C, making it the golden spice for keeping your health in check. It is a source of iron and fiber to add strength to your body and help fight colds and coughs.

Use cumin in your salads, and marinate your protein in it while cooking to add additional flavor. You can follow some of our grandmas’ recipes and add it to hot water with lemon and drink it as an immunity-boosting shot, but it might be too bitter for some people.

Angelica root

The less common of the list, Angelica root is a herb most known to be used in Chinese medicine has plenty of health benefits. It promotes blood circulation, boosts the immune system and eases constipation, and helps to balance hormones. covid 19

Angelica Roots are sold as supplements, or as roots to brew as a tea or added to soups.

Cardamom

This rich spice is known in Indian cuisine as it adds a lot of flavor and color to the food. But most importantly, it helps boost the immune system by activating the virus-fighting cells, and it helps lower blood pressure and eases chronic diseases due to its anti-inflammatory effects.

Use cardamom powder in your food, like stews and sauces. You can also add it as small pieces while cooking meats.

Everything should be consumed in moderation, even herbs, and spices.

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7 Winter Warmers You Need to Start Cooking Now

January 11, 2021

Food keeps us warm in the winter, especially cozy nights by the fire or in front of the tv. These winter warmers recipes are just the perfect dishes to make this winter extra cozy and delicious for you and your loved ones.

By Mariam Elhamy

Sheet-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsps lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1-1/2 tsps minced fresh thyme or 3/4 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp minced fresh rosemary or 1/4 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
1/4 tsp pepper
6 bone-in chicken thighs
6 chicken drumsticks
1 pound small potatoes, halved
1 medium lemon, sliced
2 tbsps minced fresh parsley

Directions:

Preheat oven to 220°C. In a small bowl, whisk the first 7 ingredients until blended. Use 1/4 cup of the marinade into a large bowl and mix in the chicken then refrigerate for 30 minutes. Store the rest of the marinade in the fridge.
Drain chicken then place it in a baking pan; add potatoes in a single layer. Drizzle reserved marinade over potatoes; top with lemon slices.
Bake until a thermometer inserted in chicken reads 170°-175° and potatoes are tender, 40-45 minutes. If desired, broil chicken 3-4 inches from heat until deep golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Potato Soup

Ingredients:

3 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes (8 cups)
1 large onion, chopped
1 jar (7 ounces) roasted sweet red peppers, drained and chopped
1 small celery, chopped
6 cups chicken broth
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper
1/8 tsp rubbed sage
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro

Directions:

Place first 8 ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook, covered, on low 5-6 hours or until potatoes are tender.
Mix flour and 1/2 cup cream until smooth; stir into soup. Stir in 3/4 cup cheese and cilantro and remaining cream. Cook, covered, on low until slightly thickened, about 30 minutes. Serve with remaining cheese.

Chicken and Wild Rice Bake

Ingredients:

3 cups water
1 cup uncooked wild rice
2-1/2 tsps salt, divided
1/4 cup butter, cubed
1 pound sliced fresh mushrooms
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cups diced cooked chicken
1 jar (2 ounces) chopped pimiento, drained
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup slivered almonds

Directions:

In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil; stir in rice and 1 tsp salt. Reduce heat; simmer, covered until kernels have puffed open, 45-50 minutes. Drain any excess water.
Preheat oven to 170°C. In a stockpot, heat butter over medium-high heat; saute mushrooms and onion for 5 minutes. Stir in rice, chicken, pimiento, parsley, pepper, broth, cream and remaining salt.
Transfer to a baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and almonds. Bake, uncovered until heated through, 50-60 minutes.

Cheeseburger Pasta

Ingredients:

1 cup uncooked penne pasta
1 pound ground beef
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed tomato soup
1/2 cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Barbecue and mustard sauce optional

Directions:

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain and set aside.
Drain pasta then add to the skillet. Stir in the soup, water, beef and heat through.
Remove from the heat and sprinkle with cheese. Cover and let stand for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Serve with barbecue sauce and mustard if desired.

Garlic Toast Pizzas

Ingredients:

4 cloves garlic, crushed
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 loaf crusty bread, split
3 tablespoons grated cheese, Parmigiano or Romano, optional
Chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 package (3-1/2 ounces) sliced regular or turkey pepperoni
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Combine garlic, butter, and oil in a microwave-safe dish or in a small saucepan. Heat for 1 minute or in a small pot over moderate-low heat for 3 minutes.
Toast bread in the grill and remove when it is toasted golden brown in color.
Brush bread liberally with garlic oil.
Spread bread with pizza sauce; top with pepperoni and cheese. Bake until cheese is melted, 4-5 minutes longer.

Pesto Rice-Stuffed Chicken

Ingredients:

3/4 cup uncooked instant rice
1/2 cup chopped seeded tomato
1/4 cup pesto
1/8 tsp salt
8 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
2 tbsps oil, divided

Directions:

Preheat oven to 190°C. Cook rice according to package directions.
In a small bowl, combine tomato, pesto, salt and rice.
Cut a pocket horizontally in the thickest part of each chicken breast. Fill each with 3 tablespoons rice mixture; secure with toothpicks.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. In batches, brown chicken breasts on each side, adding additional oil as needed. Transfer to a greased baking pan.
Bake 18-22 minutes or until chicken is not pink. Remove toothpicks before serving.

Skillet Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tbsps butter
2 tbsps all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups half-and-half cream
3/4 pound process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
Optional: fresh arugula, halved cherry tomatoes and coarsely ground pepper

Directions:

Cook macaroni according to package directions then drain.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually whisk in cream.
Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Reduce heat; stir in cheese until melted.
Add macaroni; cook and stir until heated through. Add toppings as desired.

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12 Signs A Man Shows He Loves You Without Saying It

January 10, 2021

Wondering if he still loves you? Maybe you’re not even sure yet. Men aren’t usually as open with their emotions as women. But they will surely act like it if they truly feel it. Here are 12 signs to watch out for things a man will do for you if he truly loves you.

By Mariam Elhamy

1. He’s protective of you.

And we don’t mean it in the sense that he gets jealous when someone else is around or comments on how you dress but he genuinely fears for you and respects your feelings.

Like for example if someone did you wrong at work, he’d be the first one to tell you to stand up for yourself. If he senses that you’re uncomfortable or that someone’s bothering you, he wants to be the first person to protect you from that or make you feel more at ease.

2. He’ll do anything for you without thinking about it twice.

Even if he’s tired or doesn’t have the time, whenever you need him he’ll be there in a blink of an eye without you having to ask for it. He’ll keep pursuing you even if you seem unsure and are having doubts but he’ll never give up on you.

3. He includes you in his major life decisions.

He values your opinion and trusts your advice. So even if he doesn’t talk to anyone about it, he feels totally safe opening up to you when there’s something on his mind.

4. He talks about future plans.

If your guy discusses his future plans with you and you can see yourself in it then it’s a big sign he’s very much in love with you and is taking your relationship seriously.

5. He wants to be close to you.

He’ll make an effort to be physically close to you as much as possible. He’ll have his hand around your shoulder and he’ll sneak peeks at you from across the room when you’re out with friends, that shows how happy he is that you’re his.

6. He notices the small things and he compliments you.

If you get your hair done he’ll notice and he’ll always make you feel good about yourself. Even when you’re having doubts about what you’re wearing or having a bad hair day, he’ll make you feel like you’re always perfect to him.

7. He goes out of his way for you.

If it’s dinner plans, chocolate or a fun night out to make you happy, he’ll plan it well and execute because he knows you’re worth the effort. If you’re happy he’s happy.

8. He talks to his friends about you.

He’s always excited when you two have plans with his friends because he loves showing you off. You can tell he talks about you to them and his future plans with you.

9. He listens, really listens.

No matter how long or insignificant your story is, he’s always interested in what you have to say. He’ll never reach out for his phone when you’re talking.

10. He supports your dreams.

He doesn’t belittle your aspirations. When you reach a goal, he’ll be your number one fan and supporter.

11. He misses you when you’re apart.

He’s not too prideful to tell you he misses you. He lets you know you were missed when you’re away.

12. He makes you feel loved.

You might be insecure about love. Maybe you have trust issues and can never rely on someone to make you feel loved. The right man will not have you wondering because whenever you think about if he loves you the answer will always undoubtedly be yes.

He’ll do everything he can to show you how much he loves you even if he doesn’t say it out loud. Instead of keeping an eye on all of his options, he’ll be invested in building a relationship with you.

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Your Ultimate Cold Weather Hair Routine

January 6, 2021

Winter weather is very harsh on your hair especially after being exposed to hot showers then dry or cold air, this makes your hair frizzy, static and dry. We know the struggle, with this cold weather hair routine, you don’t have to worry about any more bad hair days.

By Mariam Elhamy

Step 1

Wash your hair with lukewarm water. Showering with hot water is everyone’s dream after a long cold day but washing your hair with hot water takes out the moisture and leaves it brittle. On top of that, washing your hair too frequently strips it of natural oils that protect and moisturize hair. You could use dry shampoo which will keep your hair fresh.

Here’s where to buy dry shampoo

Step 2

Use moisturizing oil-based masks once a week to soften, hydrate, boost growth, add shine and prevent dryness. To avoid your hair being oily apply the mask generously on the ends and avoid the scalp. You could also use a leave-in conditioner which will protect your hair from the weather.

Step 3

If your hair is still dry, use hair oils or serums for an overnight mask. Don’t forget to lay down a towel on your pillow before you sleep and wash your hair in the morning. This will allow the oils to work itself deeply in your hair and moisturize it.

Step 4

Avoid blow-drying your hair as much as possible. Blow drying also draws moisture out of your hair increasing the chance of breakage. Use a few drops of hair oil to tame frizz.

Step 5

Don’t leave the house with wet hair. Cold hair expands the hair shaft, making the hair more prone to breakage, as well as leading to fading color faster. Wash your hair at night so that it gets to dry overnight.

Step 6

Wool, cotton, and other coarse fabrics can cause split ends and breakage so your winter hats are doing more bad than good to your hair. We’re not going to tell you to stop wearing all your favorite winter hats but you could wrap your hair in a silk scarf before you put your hat on. It’s also recommended to buy a silk pillowcase to sleep on.

You can find silk pillowcases in Ikea, Zara Home and Source Beauty.

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How to Get Back with Your Ex

January 5, 2021

We know it’s hard admitting you’re still in love with your ex and trying to overcome what went wrong between you. Hurtful things get said and done during a breakup and it can be tricky especially if you’re trying to turn to a new page. Here are a few tips on how to win them back and make it work.

By Mariam Elhamy

Note: If you feel that you’re doing it because you’re lonely, bored or for the fear that they’re moving on with someone new then back off. Being lonely is never a good enough reason to get back with your ex.

Fix Yourself First

Don’t go back into the relationship all broken and scarred. Take all the time you both need to forgive and forget the anger and sadness. Say if your ex cheated or betrayed you somehow, you have to be 100% sure that you can trust them again and have forgiven them, otherwise, you’ll drive yourself and them crazy doubting and overthinking whenever you have a little fight or they don’t text back fast enough.

Once you feel that all the bitterness has cleared and that you’re ready to talk things through then you can send them a text.

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Take It Easy. There’s No Rush

You miss them a lot and you think about them every day but that doesn’t mean that you should jump right into their life especially after they’ve adjusted to not having you around. You’ve already survived without them long enough.

Warm up to them as you would do with anyone you just met, if you’re too forward way too soon it might alarm them and push them away. Give them the chance to re-adapt to the idea and miss having you.

Apologize First

If you did them wrong and you haven’t apologized then you need to do that before discussing anything.

Don’t Point Fingers

When you agree to talk things through, don’t start the conversation by blaming each other for what went wrong. Instead, before you go into that conversation think of your expectations, needs and solutions for the issues that made you break up in the first place.

Are they actually fixable? If you can’t agree on the same values and ultimate end goals then you’ll probably reach a dead end again eventually. Be prepared to accept the fact that it might not work if you’re not compatible and can’t work it through.

If you find solutions then offer how you’re willing to fix them and how you want your partner to work on them too. Ask them to point out their own concerns and make the effort to actually work on them.

When your partner sees how much thought and effort you’re putting into fixing the relationship they’ll feel safer knowing that it wasn’t just a spur of the moment decision out of loneliness or boredom.

Remember the Good Things

If the conversation gets too heated, take a step back, reflect on the good things and all the great memories. This could help make you remember why you decided to try again.

Catch Up

Talk about the major events that happened in your life when you were apart. It’s important to mention if you got into another relationship so that there are no surprises down the road. If they are upset by it then it’s a good chance to talk about it and address any concerns or fears then move on.

Don’t Expect Your Family and Friends to Agree

That doesn’t make them bad people but they saw you get hurt and just want to make sure that you’re doing what’s best for you. They probably won’t understand right away but once they see that you’re happy and that you’re making it work they’ll be on board.

If you do get back together with your ex know that it’s not an overnight process and that you will stumble upon many roadblocks until you finally make it work. So don’t give up right away and put in the effort to make things better for both of you.

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Discovering Saint Katherine From Wadis to Mountain Tops

January 5, 2021

Saint Katherine is the perfect getaway for an outdoor excursion. You can camp, go on hikes, rock-climb, run, and stargaze. Its terrain extends about 4350 sq. km that are scattered with historical and religious buildings frequented by tourists and pilgrims year-round.

With breathtaking views, the area is also home to the highest mountain peak in Egypt, Mount Saint Katherine at 2,629 m. Religious significance plays a big role in this area, dating back to when Moses was bestowed with the Ten Commandments while on Mount Horeb for 40 days and 40 nights. It is truly one of the best sights to see; the sheer grandeur is enough to change you for life.

By Ahmed Talal

Conditions:

Before going to Saint Katherine, there are a few conditions that need to be taken into consideration.

The region is not a level plane, which makes breathing difficult. This creates an issue for people with any sort of blood pressure problems.
Saint Katherine is also one of if not, the coldest places in Egypt; so make sure to pack warm clothes, especially thermals if you’re camping at night.
According to locals, Thursdays and Fridays are the busiest days of the week; so if you want the large crowd, the weekend is the time to go. If you’d rather keep to yourself a bit more, then plan a trip mid-week.
In 2011, before the revolution, daily tourism averaged about 1000 people per day, according to one of the locals, Sheikh Ramadan. After the revolution, numbers have dropped down to about 400 a day, and ever since the Covid-19 pandemic hit; numbers have plummeted completely, barely reaching about 80 people at most daily.

Essentials:

There are numerous options for accommodation in Saint Katherine, but the real experiences come from the camping trips and hike excursions. In terms of hotel accommodation, the hotels within the region are three stars at most, as confirmed by several guides that live there.

If hotels and motels are your best fit, then consider ones in the range of 300 to 800 EGP per night, covering accommodation, food and beverage, a guide, and some exploring activities.

The essentials to take on this trip at a bare minimum would be a cozy sleeping bag, a hiking backpack to store belongings, and some non-perishable food like canned goods and powder-based drinks.

Sights:

The sights to see at St. Katherine are plenty; let’s have a look at some of them here:

Saint Katherine Monastery.
Mount Saint Katherine (2,629 m).
Mount Naa’ga (1800 meters).
Camping in nature.
Wadi El Talaa’, with lush greenery and waterfalls.
Springs in the mountains.

Flora & Fauna:

Both tourists and locals alike are always in awe of the beauty around them. Just when you feel like all that lies ahead is a rocky or sandy terrain; you may have a spontaneous encounter with gazelles, a hyrax (a cute hamster-like creature), or mountain goats.

Locals have passed down natural healing and cooking traditions that heavily rely on local plants and herbs, learning about that first-hand is yet another enriching aspect to the area.

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10 Steps To Love, Trust and Appreciate Yourself More

January 4, 2021

Can you honestly say that you love yourself? More often than not we fall into self-destructive behavior and actions pattern. Without even realizing it we self-doubt and question ourselves and our actions constantly, this eventually makes us dislike and even despise ourselves which in return makes us feel bad and drives negative habits.

Cut the cycle and learn how to love yourself more so that you feel more confident and positive about yourself!

By Mariam Elhamy

1. Stop the Self-Destructive Talk

Overthinking will not get you anywhere because if you don’t manage it right, it will always make you feel worse. Dwelling on your past mistakes and going over your decisions can either be very healthy or very harmful.

Instead of hating or being hard on yourself for ‘being this way’ look at your mistakes with a forgiving eye and learn from them to make better choices in the future. Your mistakes don’t define you they should make you wiser and stronger. Before you say, “I’m weak,” say, “I feel weak right now, but I know I can do this.”

2. Forget What Others Think

People will always talk, no matter what you do or how you do it that’s just the way we are. We judge others to make ourselves feel a part of something and we reflect our own insecurities on other people’s actions to feel good about ourselves.

So stop listening to what people think about you because what do they really know? If they judge you based on a single mistake you’ve made in the past then it’s their loss for not getting to know how awesome you’ve become.

3. Embrace your Imperfections

We don’t always feel great about ourselves but it’s very important in these self-doubting moments to remember that our scars and flaws are the making of us, of the strong, reliable, responsible and confident people that we are today.

4. Talk About it and Act Like it!

Being humble is an amazing quality; however, it could make you forget how great you are. How you value and talk about yourself is very important, if you’re proud of what you’re doing then don’t be afraid to compliment yourself and celebrate your achievements. Do it! Own it! Enjoy it!

It’s not only important to love yourself and feel confident about it, you have to act like you do. Whenever you feel a self-doubting thought coming in think of two things that you’re actually grateful for or that you really like about yourself, it’s important for your self-esteem. Fix your posture, bring your head up high and smile confidently.

5. Allow Others to Help

It’s sometimes hard to ask for help especially when you don’t even realize that you need it. If you feel insecure or vulnerable it’s time to put your trust in those who love you for advice and encouraging words.

Hearing an outside perspective can really change the destructive patterns. The great thing about close friends and family is that they have the power to support and empower you.

6. Stop with the Comparisons

We’re all going through a different journey and when you compare yourself to others you’re setting yourself on the road to failure. You’re not exactly like anyone you’ve ever met or will ever meet. Know your strengths, go at your own pace and find your own path.

7. Learn to Enjoy your Own Company

If you’re one of these people who always have to be around someone else to feel good then take this advice seriously and try as hard as you can to find an activity, whether traveling, meditating, going to the movies, exercising or sunbathing, that you can do all by yourself and enjoy without needing anyone else’s company.

8. Buy Yourself the Things you Want

Instead of waiting for someone to get you something, get yourself a gift every once in a while. Rewarding yourself is important as to how you value yourself and appreciate it. Take care of yourself because you really don’t need anyone else to do it for you.

9. Take Responsibility for your Own Actions

Clearly, you can’t love your messy self if you’re lying to yourself or making excuses. True self-love means taking responsibility and accountability for what you do.

Don’t shy away from uncomfortable feelings like anger and sadness. If you deny them, you deny a part of yourself. Allow yourself to express them in a healthy way.

10. Give Yourself a Break from Trying to be Perfect All the Time

Keep a diary of all your thoughts, the good and the bad, and all the things you appreciate and feel grateful for in your life. When you go back to read those over time you’ll feel proud to have overcome so much and be where you are and you’ll appreciate the things you have more.

Don’t be afraid to say no to others when you feel like it’s too much for you, stand up for yourself and earn the respect you expect and deserve. Trust that you know what is best for you, when you learn to trust yourself you learn to love yourself.

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