SIX WAYS TO BOOST YOUR SELF-ESTEEM

It’s fair to say that having low self-esteem or experiencing self-doubt at one point or another is a universal experience. Whether it’s comparing ourselves to others on social media, feeling unseen in the workplace, or being involved in a less-than-happy relationship, there are many ways our self-esteem can take a hit.

What is the meaning of self-esteem?

Self-esteem describes how we feel about ourselves and our abilities – whether that be physically, emotionally or mentally. Low self-esteem and a lack of confidence can leave us feeling down, depressed, insecure and unmotivated. It can even negatively impact our relationships or see us tolerating toxic or harmful relationships that we would not otherwise endure. Another offshoot of low-self esteem is “imposter syndrome”, which describes an overwhelming feeling of being undeserving of success, often leaving us suspecting that our achievements are due to luck, rather than talent and hard work.

If you identify with any symptoms or feelings of low self-esteem, thankfully, there are some easy, everyday practices and ways to boost self-esteem. It’s important to understand that we’re allowed to feel good about ourselves, after all!

What are 6 ways to improve self-esteem?

2. Be kind and compassionate

Not just to others, but to ourselves! Often those of us suffering from low self-esteem treat others with much greater care or love than we do ourselves. But self-compassion is not selfish, it’s important! Forgive yourself for making mistakes (you’re only human), challenge negative thoughts, and speak to yourself in the same way that you’d speak to a friend or a loved one.

Try this: Write down 3 things you’re proud of yourself for.

2. Get moving

We always say that exercise has many benefits beyond fitness: it releases feel good hormones (endorphins), increases our motivation and confidence, builds energy, and can help us practice goal-setting. Take this as “me time” or use it to hang out with friends.

Try this: Do gentle yoga with meditation or go on a coastal walk with a friend you trust.

3. Remember that nobody’s perfect

While it’s great to have goals, it’s important for us to remember that perfection is unrealistic. The same goes for comparison: it’s unproductive to compare ourselves and our goals to someone else’s.

Try this: Personalise three goals unique to you.

4. Focus on what’s in your control

Focusing on things that we have no control over can easily send us into a negative spiral and can peak anxiety or depression. Focusing on changes we know we can make leaves us feeling more confident and in control of our lives and wellbeing – even if they’re as small as walking around the block or giving ourselves one daily positive affirmation.

Try this: Make a list of 3 things you’d like to change, and what you can do about it.

5. Celebrate your wins

Again, no matter how small, allow yourself to celebrate your wins. From getting out of bed in the morning, to doing the grocery shopping and nailing that presentation at work, think of ways you can reward yourself. This can have a huge impact when it comes to building confidence.

Try this: Every week, write down your proudest win.

6. Surround yourself with support

Although it may not always feel like it, the relationships we are and are not involved in are oftentimes within our control. Choosing to leave a friendship or relationship that negatively impacts our self-esteem or triggers negative thinking can be a fantastic way to regain control and feel capable and confident. Likewise, surrounding ourselves with people who are supportive and to whom we can lend support can do the same.

Feel like you’re struggling with self-esteem? Book in an appointment with our friendly team of experienced psychologists at Mind Matters.

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