I’ve found the perfect person for you.

Before I give any names, let me tell you about the person first.

This person is incredibly thoughtful, spectacularly creative, incredibly smart and witty with killer looks to match. This person happens to share your favorite TV show and would be ready to binge-watch the next season in one night. All of your favorite songs and albums are in their music library. Better yet, you both share the same favorite ice cream flavor and this person is willing to share. Are you ready to find out who this dreamy person is?

In case you haven’t figured it out, this person is you.

The relationship you have with yourself has been longer than any other relationship you’ve ever had. But have you ever dated yourself to increase your self-esteem? To get started, here are a few traditional relationship tips with a twist:

1. Never go to bed angry.
Once our head hits the pillow, it’s easy to relive our past mistakes and shortcomings. Instead of putting yourself down with negative thoughts like I should’ve done that or I’m so stupid, learn to forgive and forget. Allow yourself to learn from your slip-ups, let go of the emotional attachment, and promise to make better mistakes tomorrow.

2. Show appreciation for yourself- without PDA, please.
We all appreciate the unexpected hug or the out-of-the-blue text message from a friend or family member. Who says you can’t do sweet gestures for yourself? The next time you ace your exam, treat yourself to a night of Netflix. Tried your best in the softball game? Sounds like the perfect opportunity to take a bubble bath and congratulate your efforts.

3. Don’t be afraid to have the tough conversations.
If something is bothering you, don’t let it eat you up. Write how you’re feeling in a journal, talk to a trusted confidant or find healthy ways to express the stress, such as reading or kicking a soccer ball outside. Facing tough problems can make us vulnerable and momentarily stressed, but they’re better tackled head-on.

4. Compliment yourself often.
Have you ever noticed how many times we put ourselves down for the pettiest reasons? We have to remember to praise ourselves for little things as much as we put ourselves down for little things. Yes, that means giving ourselves a pat on the back when we run an extra lap or acknowledging when our eyeliner is perfectly symmetrical on both eyes.

By: Erin Rodrigue
(C) I'mPerfect Magazine