It’s important for our mental health to celebrate ourselves, our quirks and our little wins, especially modest, everyday ones. There is much joy to be had in seeing and appreciating the ordinary.

I have had to recognise my own qualities as part of developing more self-compassion and a kindlier, friendlier inner voice. Every time I want a bit of praise or encouragement from someone else, I see if I can find it in myself instead. This makes me feel powerful. I no longer have to wait for a kind word. I can say it myself! Here are 5 reasons to start celebrating yourself.

1. Encourages you to be positive about yourself

We are naturally drawn to being critical of ourselves. So we need to consciously focus on the opposite.

2. Helps you not need external validation

In general, it’s a good idea to avoid looking for yourself where you are not – or the approval and praise of others which you can’t control. Celebrating yourself is a good way of doing so.

3. Makes you feel more cheerful

Celebrating yourself can make you feel a bit more cheerful – and in turn better able to celebrate and appreciate others. It need not be selfish or narcissistic.

4. Reminds you of the sacred gifts you were born with

Celebrating yourself reminds you of the sacred gifts you were born with: we all have them. They were given to you and you didn’t have to earn them or work for them. That’s something to celebrate.

5. Helps you focus on gratitude

Celebrating yourself helps you focus on things you are grateful for - and practising gratitude is great for wellbeing. Start with yourself!

Find more ideas like this one in my book Singing in the Rain: 52 Practical Steps to Happiness

I hope you found this blog post useful, if you did, follow me on Instagram for more wellbeing tips!