We believe in treating yourself, even more so if the last few weeks have been especially stressful. That, and sometimes we get what we want, but little of what we actually need. Fortunately, your best interest is at the forethought, and our eye is on the new year ahead, a theme we adhered to when choosing every item on our list that should fit with most budgets.

1. Dreamy Watercolor Calendar

Let this gorgeous watercolor calendar inspire your 2018. Jot down notes, mark special days, and stay organized without having to always rely on your cell phone. A great way to get back to simpler times, incorporating a monthly calendar puts you in touch with visual and tactile qualities you just can’t recreate with technology. Plus, when it comes to a mid-afternoon daydream, you simply can’t beat this view. Priced at $24.

2. Empowered Clothing

Although it’s easy to feel set back by current social and political issues, it’s important to keep pushing forward. Whether dealing with gender equality, reproductive rights, body acceptance, or another personal, highly debated topic, positivity is what’s needed to influence our actions and thoughts in meaningful, progressive ways. Remind yourself about the cause daily in a really fun way with one of the amazing items from Feminist Apparel. Worthy of becoming your new favorite graphic t-shirt and best little conversation starter around, you’ll fall in love with these cute and sassy kitties. Priced at $29.95.

3. Healing Crystal Jewelry

The holidays are hectic and downright draining for most of us, so why not treat yourself to some natural crystal jewelry that has a dual purpose–to beautify and to heal. We’ve chosen this stunning pair of chalcedony earrings, but you can spring for necklaces, bracelets, or rings to get your mind right for the new year. This particular pair is perfect for enhancing mental acuity, absorbing negative energy, and harmonizing mind, body, and emotions. However, there are a variety of stones available to fit your needs. Priced at $48.

4. Upgraded Eco Mat

There’s something to be said about taking up, increasing, or simply enjoying your exercise routine after the holidays. Whether it’s yoga, or some other activity that could benefit from use of a mat, we suggest upgrading yours to something functional, yet affordable. Unwind and destress with this eco-friendly, non-slip, durable, and attractive mat made from jute and eco-PVC. Bonus: this mat comes with a carrying handle and towel set. Priced at $42.95.

5. Luxurious Sleep Mask

Getting some extra shut eye is def on our list of post-holiday priorities. Combat the early morning sun and sleep more soundly with a mask that’s relaxing and functional. Perpetual Shade offers just that–tons of sleep masks, ranging from luxurious silk with trendy patterns and solid colors, to cotton masks with a sense of humor. Whether you prefer to count daiquiris in your dreams, or like to take a direct approach to being left the hell alone while you nap, the most important thing is that you’re getting more sleep. Priced at $39.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

Related on EcoSalon

5 Cozy Picks for Luxurious Winter Lounging: Friday Finds
5 Glam Looks Perfect for Ringing in the New Year: Friday Finds
5 Very-Wearable Winter Fashion Trends to Try: Friday Finds

The post 5 Picks Under $50 (Because the Holidays Were Expensive): Friday Finds appeared first on EcoSalon.

Do you constantly worry about what people think? Do you leave parties or other social gatherings wondering if you said anything offensive or if those around you enjoyed your company? Do you feel defensive if someone criticizes you? These are all qualities of an approval addict.

Now, how would it feel if you just stopped worrying about what people thought? Can you imagine the weight that would lifted? It’s not about having an oversized ego, it’s about letting go. But it’s easier said than done. We’re social beings and for some of us, being an approval addict is strongly linked to how we view ourselves. Compliments from others feed this fire, making us feel a sort of high for the moment. Here’s how to stop being an approval addict:

1. Love yourself.

Establish a strong enough relationship with yourself so that you no longer have to seek that love from others. Cultivating self love is the first step in relaxing the need for approval.

2. You’re only a character in someone else’s story.

Someone else’s opinion of you is just a perception. They don’t understand what goes on inside your heart just like you don’t know what goes on inside their hearts. You’re seeking approval from someone based on how well you put up a front.

3. Notice when you’re worried about approval.

Some of us hide who we really are in an effort to seek approval. And when we don’t gain that approval we may lash out at the person who’s positive judgement we crave. Or we may find parts of that person to criticize. Or we may internalize the pain. It’s just about noticing when you’re seeking approval and releasing that need. Knowing is half the battle.

4. Surround yourself by less judgmental people.

If you’ve surrounded yourself by people who tend to criticize, you’re sure to be on the negative end of that criticism at some point. It’s just a matter of when. But surrounding yourself by a group of friends that’s less likely to judge and criticize makes it easier to avoid seeking approval.

5. Turn your energy toward others.

Obsessing about what other people think about you is actually a selfish proposition because you’re constantly absorbed in yourself. Turning your energy to others by volunteering and caring for your community can help lift some of that weight.

We all worry about what people think, it’s part of who we are as people. But those who seek approval less often tend to happier and more content. It’s about stepping back and noticing that at times we’re vulnerable. If we’re constantly worried about what people think, we’re less likely to show our authentic self, and in the end, the world is missing out on a treat. Take steps to release the burden of approval addiction and you’ll be a much happier person for it.

Related on EcoSalon

7 Reasons Women Lack Confidence and What To Do About It

10 Real Life Women Superheroes That Inspire Confidence

Authentic Happiness Linked to DNA in Denmark

Image of a worried woman Shuttershock

The post How to Stop Being an Approval Addict appeared first on EcoSalon.

When it comes to self love, some of us have a better handle on it than others because those lucky souls have learned to accept themselves for who they really are. And it’s a lesson that we could all benefit from.

We all have those times when we feel like we’re not good enough–not smart enough, not pretty enough, not eloquent enough. We think that if anyone found out who we actually were behind the projection screen, they’d hate us. So we hate ourselves instead. That’s when comparison thinking gets more pronounced. Everyone else is richer, more fashionable, and more together.

We’re all human, that’s why we have these ups and downs. As if sometimes we could take on the world and other times we’re completely worthless.

What’s your take on self love? And how susceptible are you to self shaming in your life?

Why not take steps to stop shaming yourself? These steps will help you get started:

-Stop worrying what other people think so much.

The projection of who people think you are isn’t real anyway so stop worrying so much what people think about who you are. Self love comes from doing the best you can in life and then letting the chips fall where they may. Some people are going to like you and some aren’t. But trying too hard to maintain control is a waste of time. Love yourself enough to stop worrying so much what people think.

-Perfection isn’t perfect.

You’re never going to be perfect so striving for perfection all the time is just another stressor. Everyone has baggage. Everyone. And trying to be the most beautiful at-ease specimen just isn’t realistic. Regardless of what Facebook or Instagram tells us, we all have personality faults, big and small, and we all crumble sometimes.

-Love all of you.

Loving the positive qualities in yourself is easy but true self love comes from loving positive and negative qualities. You’re a mixed bag so accept the whole lot. Who says that the qualities you deem so shameful are really even that bad? One tool for creating this all around self love is through meditation. When thoughts or feelings come up in meditation, resist the urge to label them as bad or good. Instead, just notice that they arise during meditation. This way, you won’t have such a reaction to the qualities that cause self shaming in your life.

-Stop the negative talk.

What you say to yourself matters. We can be our own worst critics. Notice when you start chastising yourself for one reason or another and cool it. Words matter, so what you say to yourself and about others shapes your perception of the world over and over again. Be aware of your inner monologue.

Related on EcoSalon

7 Reasons Women Lack Confidence and What to Do About It

Ambition Versus Romance: Is Your Career Wrecking Your Love Life?

10 Real Life Super Heroes That Inspire Confidence in Women

Heart in hands image by Shuttershock

The post Self Love 101: How to Stop Shaming Yourself appeared first on EcoSalon.

Self love is an important aspect of our personality. Accepting ourselves for who we are is the only way we can ever fully accept those around us and find peace.

We are our own worst critics, constantly hating on ourselves for no good reason. When we get down on ourselves the problem gets even worse. That’s when the negative self talk kicks into full gear and we beat ourselves up worse than any bully could ever dream. We need some self love.

5 Tips to Cultivate Self Love

1. Set attainable goals.

Part of the reason we’re constantly tearing ourselves down is because we’re unable to reach the ridiculous goals we set. Set goals that you can actually reach. That doesn’t mean that you don’t have more ambitious goals as well, just realize that you need smaller more reachable goals in between. For example, if you’re saving money to buy your dream house, set the goal of getting out of the red in the first year and then set reachable budgeting goals there after. This way, you’re working toward an attainable goal in between your more ambitious goals. Setting and reaching goals helps us to build faith in ourselves.

2. Get to know yourself.

Have you ever noticed the tendency to judge someone harshly until you get to know them better? I know I’m guilty of it–thinking someone is bitchy or snobby and then hanging out with them only to realize I was dead wrong. That’s the way we are with ourselves, too–judgmental until we get to know ourselves a little better. Meditation is a good avenue for establishing a better relationship with yourself as is journaling or just spending time alone.

3. Surround yourself with support.

If you’re surrounded by hypercritical people then your tendency will be just that. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in you and your skill set. It will help you to do the same.

4. Watch for negative self talk.

Be mindful of self criticism especially when you’re feeling down. Notice the negative words that you say about yourself and question them. Are you really a loser? Are you really fat? Are you really not worth anything? Your likely answer is no because a lot of the crap that we say about ourselves is just that–crap.

5. Fully accept yourself.

Accept that you’re a fallible person just like everybody else. Life is messy sometimes and so are you, but that’s just fine. Know what you want out of life rather than just comparing it to what others want in life and accept your path. Then live intentionally, if your purpose is to travel and see the world, make meaningful decisions that support your intention.

Related on EcoSalon

Why Women Lack Confidence and What To Do About It

Remember to Love Yourself This Valentine’s Day

7 Ways to Live Without Self Doubt

Image: QuinnDombrowski

The post 5 Tips to Cultivating Self Love: We’re All Worth It appeared first on EcoSalon.

Comparison thinking is just another way of judging ourselves.

Gauging your own success by comparing yourself to others is a no-win game. On one hand, comparison thinking is natural because our minds love to rank, file, and organize, but it’s too easy to get sucked into the depressing pattern of jealousy and competition. It takes effort, but putting an end to comparison thinking is the only way to avoid unnecessary negativity.

6 Ways to Free Yourself from Comparison Thinking

1. Turn the tables.

Since comparison thinking comes naturally to humans, try to channel it in a different direction. Try comparing the new you to the old you. Celebrate the things you’re able to do today that you couldn’t do five years ago. Take pleasure in all the ways you’re a more confident version of yourself.

2. Be proud of other’s successes.

Part of being happy is learning to learning to be happy for others. Comparison thinking breeds jealousy, which, along with fear and hate, are emotions create a downward spiral of negativity. Try to be happy for other people and their successes rather than being jealous–you might be surprised at how content it makes you feel!

3. Look for triggers.

Why are you so quick to compare yourself to others? And I’m not only talking about cyberstalking your frenemies on Facebook and Instagram. More specifically, what are the vulnerabilities that rise to the surface when you look deep within? Are you worried about fitting in, having more money, or career success? Identify the things that trigger negative comparison thinking so you can acknowledge and avoid them.

4. Be kind.

Kindness enriches every part of our lives. If you’re unkind to yourself then you’re likely to be unkind to others. Be proud of where you, your friends, and family are in life and don’t be critical.

5. Give up both sides of comparison thinking.

Comparison thinking typically involves judging ourselves against those who have more than us, rather than those who have less. But it can also involve feeling superior to those who have less. Resist the urge to compare in either direction.

6. Be yourself.

Just because all your friends are having babies doesn’t mean you should do the same. Maybe your life path is different. As we grow older it becomes more difficult not to fall into the mold of what we think we should be doing, even if it’s not a good fit. Remember to stay true to who you are and avoid being who you think you should be.

What’s your best advice for stopping comparison thinking?

Related on EcoSalon:
You Are Center Stage
Scientific Explanation for Contagious Happiness
Oprah on Contentment and Happiness

Image: misspupik

The post 6 Ways to Free Yourself from Comparison Thinking appeared first on EcoSalon.