We talk a lot about relationships – romantic partnerships, friendships, family bonds. But there’s one relationship we rarely discuss, even though it’s the most important one we’ll ever have: the relationship with ourselves.
Think about it. You’re the only person who experiences every single moment of your life. You’re your own permanent companion through every triumph, every struggle, every ordinary Tuesday. Yet somehow, many of us have become our own worst critics instead of our biggest supporters.
If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking harsh thoughts about your appearance, your abilities, or your worth, you’re not alone. Low self-esteem affects millions of people, but here’s the good news: you can change this pattern with some intentional practice.
The “Five Things I Like About Myself” Challenge
I want to share a simple but powerful exercise that can help shift how you see yourself. It’s called the “Five Things I Like About Myself” challenge, and it’s exactly what it sounds like.
Here’s how it works:
Grab a notebook or open a notes app on your phone. Write down five things you genuinely like about yourself. Not things you tolerate or things others have told you – things you actually appreciate about who you are.
Struggling to Come Up With Five Things?
If you’re staring at a blank page, that’s actually a sign this exercise is exactly what you need. Here are some strategies to get you started:
Look beyond the physical. While it’s great to appreciate your body, you are so much more than your appearance. Think about your character, your skills, your heart.
Consider what you love in others. The qualities you admire in your favorite people? You likely possess some of those same traits. We’re often drawn to people who reflect parts of ourselves we value.
Flip your perceived flaws. Take something you typically criticize about yourself and find the positive side. Maybe your “overthinking” is actually thoughtfulness. Your “sensitivity” might be empathy. Your “stubbornness” could be determination.
The Seven-Day Journey
Here’s where it gets interesting: Do this exercise for seven days straight. Each day, find five NEW things you like about yourself. By the end of the week, you’ll have a list of 35 positive qualities – 35 reasons to appreciate who you are.
The Mirror Moment
At the end of the week, take your complete list and stand in front of a mirror. Read every single item aloud to yourself. Instead of scanning for flaws or things to “fix,” let the mirror reflect back your magnificence.
Yes, you might feel silly. You might feel resistant. That’s completely normal – and it’s exactly when this exercise can help you most.
Why This Works
We spend so much time looking outward – at our phones, at other people, at the world around us – that we rarely take time to truly see ourselves. When we do look in mirrors, we’re often focused on what we want to change rather than what we can celebrate.
This exercise forces us to pause and experience ourselves the way we would experience someone we love and admire. It helps us become our own best friend instead of our harshest critic.
Your Turn
Will you try this challenge? Start today. Right now, even. Write down five things you like about yourself. Don’t wait until you feel “ready” or until you think you have enough good qualities to fill a list. Start where you are.
Remember: You are your lifelong companion. Isn’t it time you started treating yourself like the amazing person you are?
What’s on your list? I’d love to hear about your experience with this exercise in the comments below.
