Are You Your Own Best Friend?

It is important to have friends, yes.  But it's also a good idea to be your own best friend.  But what does that mean exactly?  Here's how I see it:

• Enjoy alone time:  You can find plenty of engaging and satisfying things to do by yourself.  You do what is fun for you.    
• Enjoy the freedom to do your own thing:  You like not having to rely on other people's schedules.  You go with whatever feels good at the time.
• Concentrate on being yourself:  So you don't want to join the crowd.  That's fine.  You have your own opinions and you're not afraid to voice them.  You show your true colors without wondering what others will think.  You wear what feels comfortable, not what's "in fashion."  And you do it in a way that is non-threatening to others.  There's no reason to become defensive when you're being yourself.  Just be, and those who appreciate and love you will accept you as you are.
• Take care of your own needs:  You put your own needs first.  If you are tired, stressed out, or feeling under the weather, you aren't afraid to say no to an invitation to hang out with friends.  You skip the movie, the hike, the party, and instead, rest, read, listen to music, meditate--whatever it takes to recharge your batteries.  There will be other opportunities to socialize. 
• Go with your gut:  If it doesn't feel right, you don't do it.  If a person doesn't seem sincere, you back away.  If that business deal you're trying to work out just doesn't set well with you, you drop it.  You always listen to your gut.  It steers you right every time.
• Love yourself unconditionally:  You realize you are really good at some things and you're really bad at others.  You will be spot on regarding certain decisions, and a mile off on others.  You celebrate the wins, the good decisions; and forgive the losses, the goofs.  
• Be honest with yourself:  You don't make excuses.  You've gained weight.  You treated a friend unfairly during an argument over something stupid.  You have gone without proper sleep for way too long, opting instead to work or play on the Internet into the wee hours.  You are honest with yourself, admit when you're wrong and make the changes you need in order to live a healthy life.
• Be your own cheerleader:  You know what you want in life.  You know what your limits are.  You push yourself to accomplish your goals the best that you can.  
• Step back:  You don't get too far into your head.  If you tend to keep hearing the same messages in your head, such as, "I'm not good enough," or "I can't do that," then you stop and take a step back.  You examine the source of your negativity and do what you can to alter those thoughts that are bringing you down and holding you back.  

So, there you go.  That's my take on what it means to be your own best friend.  Do you have other suggestions that you'd like to add?  If so, great.  Post them in the comments.  Have a great weekend!