Originally published on HuffingtonPost

It can be tough to stay motivated when it comes to dating. Why else do so many of us make the same New Year’s resolutions to meet new people year after year? If you go in and out of feeling inspired to join a dating site, you are not alone. However, there are ways you can stay motivated! Saskia Nelson, a UK-based photographer who specializes in taking kick-a** profile pics, recently wrote a blog post for HuffPo describing easy ways to stay motivated when it comes to dating. You can read the full article here, or get a quick rundown with our recap of “The 6 Ways You Can Be Your Own Dating Cheerleader:”

1. Shut Down Your Inner Critic Nelson says to shut down that jerk inside your head that’s constantly screaming all the things that are wrong about you. Or the one that goes on and on about all the things you can’t have or can’t do. This inner critic (which Nelson says is really just your fears) is stopping you from meeting someone special.

2. Remind Yourself Why You’re So Cool/Lovely/Awesome How can someone else think you’re cool if you don’t? Nelson advises writing down all the things you can think of that you love about yourself. And then force yourself to write down another ten. Your thoughts become your reality… so think positive!

3. Build in Time for a Daily Pep Talk Daily pep talks are an easy way to stop all that harsh self-criticizing. Giving yourself a daily pep talk for even just a few minutes can help! Just make sure it’s honest and that you truly believe the words you are saying.

4. Do Something That Scares You Once a Week Does the thought of emailing someone new freak you out? Make a goal to message at least one person on JDate every week. Do you avoid asking people out because of a fear of rejection? Make plans to meet someone for coffee or a drink every Thursday. This is a great way to build your self-confidence… and actually start meeting new people.

5. Help Others, Don’t Compare Yourself to Others Following people on Facebook and Instagram is fun, but it can also lead to unhealthy comparisons—which often bring out that inner critic. Combat this by offering to help others. Whether you are volunteering at a local charity or helping a friend with a move, you will feel positive about your good deed… and maybe even meet someone doing the same thing.

6. Reward Yourself Lastly, Nelson says it’s important to reward yourself for all your successes (whether they are big or small). Celebrate every time you send a message to someone new: it shows you value yourself and will let others know they should too!

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