10 Ways to improve your self esteem

Copyright: nastia / 123RF Stock Photo

People with a healthy self esteem are able to feel good about themselves regardless of what is happening around them. Though they may have faults or challenges, these don’t play an overwhelmingly large role in their lives or in how they view themselves.

Self esteem is how you feel about yourself and your abilities

You are what you think. Low self-esteem can have a negative impact on your life and what you can achieve.

There are several situations in life that can result in your self esteem taking a huge knock: loneliness, bullying, abuse and unemployment are just a few.

To improve your self esteem, you often have to do some internal work: self discovery, self acceptance, self worth and self development

Here are 10 ways to improve your self esteem:

1. Replace negative thoughts with positive ones

Write down some positive things about yourself and read them to yourself every morning and evening. For example: I am beautiful, I am kind, I am loved, I have dreams, I can do anything etc.

2. Focus on what’s going right and magnify that

Write down a list of the things that are working out and put them under the spotlight. This will serve as a reminder that it’s really not that bad. Example: I have a Job, I have a home, I have family etc.

3. Practise good self care

Spend some time alone and nurture yourself. Do the things you like. This will serve as a positive boost.

4. Remove activities, things or people that make you unhappy

Anything that drains you or zaps the energy out of you, will only pull you back. Remove and replace that with things you are comfortable with.

There are several situations in life that can result in your self esteem taking a huge knock: loneliness, bullying, abuse and unemployment are just a few

5. Identify what triggers the low self esteem

These are things that cause you to immediately feel small or insecure. Do not judge yourself for having weaknesses and never force yourself to do what you’re uncomfortable with.

6. Try new activities

New adventures will help you discover your skills and talents. Be open minded, meet new people and try different things. Who knows what you may discover?

7. Always reward yourself for effort

Don’t expect perfection in the journey of life. Any effort however small, must be rewarded to keep you motivated.

8. Hang around positive people

Choose people who inspire you to be better. They will offer positive guidance and advice.

9. Change what you can, and accept what you can’t

Be accepting of yourself, your body and your life. Change what you can but don’t set impossible standards for yourself.

10. Set goals and take a small bite at a time

The thought of achieving your goals can be overwhelming. To avoid this, break down your goals into smaller tasks and every time you complete one, celebrate!

Remember: change starts within you. You have to do the work. Don’t worry about what others are doing or saying – focus on improving YOUR life.