Take the time to prioritize your physical, mental and emotional well-being (Image: Shutterstock)
From practicing self-compassion to surrounding yourself with positive influences, you can take significant steps to boost your self-esteem
Self-esteem plays a vital role in our overall well-being and happiness. It affects how we perceive ourselves and our abilities, and it affects our relationships, performance, and overall quality of life. While self-esteem can fluctuate throughout our lives, there are practical strategies we can use to encourage and maintain healthy self-esteem.
Increasing self-esteem is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and self-reflection. From practicing self-compassion to surrounding yourself with positive influences, you can take significant steps to boost your self-esteem. Here are 5 practical strategies to boost your self-esteem.
- Practice self-compassion
Self-compassion means treating yourself with kindness, understanding, and acceptance, especially in times of failure or difficulty. Instead of berating yourself for mistakes or shortcomings, offer yourself the same support and empathy you would give to a dear friend. Recognize that everyone makes mistakes, and that they do not define your worth as a person. Embrace self-forgiveness and focus on learning and growing from your experiences. - Set realistic goals
Setting and achieving goals can contribute significantly to a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem. However, it is important to set realistic goals that are within your reach. Break bigger goals into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate each milestone along the way. By setting achievable goals, you experience a sense of progress and competence, which fuels your confidence and self-esteem. - Challenge negative self-talk
We all have an internal dialogue that affects how we perceive ourselves. Negative self-talk, such as self-criticism or self-doubt, can erode self-esteem over time. Challenge these negative thoughts by questioning their validity. Replace self-defeating beliefs with positive affirmations and realistic self-assessment. Surround yourself with supportive and encouraging people who lift you up and reinforce a positive self-image. - Practice self-care
Engaging in self-care activities is essential to nurturing a positive self-image. Take the time to prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These can include activities such as exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, engaging in hobbies you enjoy, and seeking moments of relaxation and reflection. By prioritizing self-care, you are sending a powerful message to yourself that you are worthy of love, care, and attention. - Develop strengths and celebrate successes
Identify your strengths and focus on developing and leveraging them. Recognize your achievements, no matter how small, and celebrate them. Recognizing your abilities and achievements helps build confidence and self-esteem. Be proud of your efforts and the progress you are making. Embrace a growth mindset and see challenges as opportunities for personal growth and learning.