In a fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook your own needs and neglect your self-care. With so many responsibilities to juggle, it’s typical to feel overwhelmed and stressed out on a regular basis. This is why you need a few self care hacks that lead to self love in your life. But how can you get there? The good news is that there are simple ways to boost your self-worth, find yourself, and practice self love every day. Self care isn’t just about pampering yourself with nice things or taking time for yourself every now and then. It’s about making an intentional effort to take care of yourself—mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually—on a consistent basis.

Start with a daily skincare routine

If you don’t take care of your skin, you won’t only not look your best—you won't feel your best. Invest in a daily skincare routine that includes items like a cleanser, exfoliant, moisturizer, toner, and sunscreen—just make sure it’s right for your skin type.

Seek professional help if needed

If you’re not sure where to start, consult with a dermatologist to find out what your skin needs and which products would be most effective for your complexion. When you take good care of your skin, not only will you look better, but you’ll also positively impact your mental health. When you look your best, it’s easier to feel good about yourself.

Create a self care ritual

If you have a daily skincare routine, that’s great, but don’t stop there. Create a self care ritual that you do every day. Start with something small that you can build on over time as your self care practice grows. Maybe you want to write down your three biggest accomplishments at the end of each day, or write a letter to yourself expressing gratitude for all that you have in your life.

Take back control

Maybe you want to implement a meditation practice, or read an inspiring self-help book. Whatever ritual you choose, make it a consistent part of your day so it becomes ingrained in your routine. Doing something every day will help you feel more in control and confident about your day. It will help you stay motivated and positive. It will help you make better decisions and feel more in control of your life.

Go somewhere you feel good

Find somewhere that makes you feel good every time you go there. Whether that’s a coffee shop, library, park, bookstore, or museum, make it a goal to go somewhere that makes you feel good once a week. When you surround yourself with things that make you feel good, it’s easier to find a sense of peace and find yourself.

Time for yourself

It’s important to make time for yourself to do the things you love and be around people who make you feel good. Make sure you do this even if you’re feeling low. It is important to take time out for yourself even when you’re not feeling your best. It will help you recharge and find yourself again.

Go on a digital detox

Find ways to limit your exposure to technology on a daily basis. Put your phone on airplane mode at least once a week so you can spend more time focusing on yourself without interruption. Do this with tech that you’re not using for work or school, too. You don’t need to be on social media 24/7, or have the TV or computer on while studying or doing homework. Be more mindful of your online presence, too. Be authentic online, and don’t say or share things that aren’t true to yourself.

Take time for yourself alone

At some point, you need to be alone with your thoughts. It’s important to give yourself space and time to think, reflect, and process your emotions. If you’re constantly surrounded by other people, you don’t give yourself a chance to be alone with your thoughts. Find ways to get alone and spend time with yourself every week. Whether that’s going on a walk, meditating, or reading a book, it’s important to regularly carve out time for yourself alone. It will help you find yourself again and give you the quiet and space you need to process your emotions and feelings.

Good vibes only zone

If you’re feeling down or overwhelmed, sometimes it helps to have a “good vibes only” zone in your space—whether that’s your room, living room, or even your work area. Make this part of your regular self care routine, and make sure to put things in this space that remind you of what you want for your future. Having a visual reminder will help you focus on your goals when you’re feeling low. Having a visual reminder around you every day will help keep you focused, motivated, and inspired.

Take time for meditation and breathing exercises

If you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed, meditating can help you find clarity, peace, and calm. Even if you don’t meditate regularly, try it out while you’re feeling overwhelmed. It can help you gain perspective, and it’s an easy and quick way to de-stress and calm yourself. Similarly, breathing exercises are a quick and easy way to de-stress, find clarity, and calm yourself. When you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed, take a few minutes out of each day to do breathing exercises. They’re effective, easy, and can help you find yourself again.

Help your body

When you’re focusing on your self care, it’s important to be mindful of what you’re eating. Stay hydrated, and eat a balanced diet with lots of veggies, fruits, and whole grains. Cutting out sugar and processed foods will not only help you find yourself, but it will also help you stay healthy, but be sure to make this process slow and sustainable.

Exercise

Similarly, exercise is an important part of self care, too. It’s important to find an exercise that you enjoy. Exercise can be anything from walking to yoga or martial arts. When you exercise regularly, not only will you feel proud of yourself, but you’ll feel more relaxed and find yourself easier.

Set boundaries and say no to others

Find ways to set healthy boundaries with others in your life. Know what you need and what you don’t. You don’t have to do everything. Be willing to say no and don’t feel guilty about it. Even if you feel like you’re being too picky, or someone is offended by the fact that you don’t want to do something, it’s important to set boundaries and say no.

Electronics

This is true for your social media presence and use of technology, too. If you struggle with anxiety or feel like you can’t control your social media use, try an app like Break Free from the creators of Delete Your Account. It can help you take back control of your tech use.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You don’t have to do everything on your own. If you don’t know how to do something, or if you’re stressed and overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to reach out to someone. Having people you can talk to and confide in will not only help you feel less alone, but it’ll help you find yourself and be more confident. Not only will these self care hacks help you find yourself, they will also help you to embrace who you really are and how you want to live your life.