We’re often great at encouraging others but much harsher on ourselves. Learning to cheer for yourself isn’t about forced positivity – it’s about treating yourself with the same warmth you’d offer a friend. Here are a few simple ways to start.
1. Notice the Small Wins
Begin with the tiniest successes. Every time you do something helpful, productive, or kind, pause and think, “Good job, me.”
It might feel odd at first, but it teaches your mind to notice what you’re doing right rather than what you’re missing.
2. Leave Your Future Self a Little Pep Talk
Write a short note for tomorrow’s you – something calm, reassuring, and realistic. A sentence like, “You’re doing your best, and it’s enough,” can set a gentle tone for the day ahead.
3. Use Kinder Self-Talk
You don’t need to be overly positive – just gentle.
Swap “I’m terrible at this” for “I’m learning,” or “I should be doing more” for “I’m doing what I can today.”
Small shifts make a big difference over time.
4. Celebrate Your Effort
Pick a simple way to acknowledge your daily wins: a quiet moment to breathe, a cup of tea, or jotting a note in a small journal.
Celebration doesn’t have to be big – it just needs to be consistent.
5. Give Yourself Permission to Rest
Encouragement isn’t only about pushing yourself forward. Sometimes it’s telling yourself it’s OK to pause. Rest isn’t failure – it’s part of staying well.
A Final Thought
You don’t have to be your own biggest cheerleader every day. But learning to speak to yourself with a little more kindness can make life feel lighter and more manageable.
Here’s a great message from Mel Robbins on You Tube on how to Cheer for Yourself.
About the Author
Dedicated to helping individuals manage mental health challenges like overthinking, anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem
