When you look in the mirror, the only person who has to be happy with the reflection is you. However, we tend to be our own harshest critics. We all want something we don’t have, and it can be difficult to find happiness in what we already do have. If you’re struggling with your self-esteem, you may just need to give yourself a boost to feel better. Here are some steps that you can take to increase your confidence.
Be Aware
How we speak to ourselves has a direct effect on how we feel and view ourselves. So, if you’re talking negatively to yourself on a constant basis, it’s not surprising that you’re low. When you feel like you need a boost in self-esteem, try and monitor the way you talk to yourself. You could try giving yourself compliments before you head off to work in the morning or pep talks to set you up for the day ahead. Just by simply looking in the mirror once a day and telling yourself ‘I am beautiful’ can change your thought patterns completely.
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Don’t give others power
We all have negative people in our lives that like to try and bring us down. It’s difficult to ignore these people and they’ll often have a huge effect on your self-esteem. However, no-one has the power to make you feel bad about yourself unless you let them have it. Your own opinions about yourself are far more powerful than anything anyone else can say. Let people have their opinions, but only take your own to heart.
Changing your Appearance
Often times, low self-esteem comes from being unhappy about your appearance. If you’re not happy about your appearance, you may find yourself feeling low and avoiding social situations, rather than tackling the problem. Only you can make the changes necessary to feel good about yourself. It may be losing some weight with a diet and fitness program, breast augmentation or getting help from a dermatologist for skin conditions. Whatever you feel will enhance your self-esteem can be done if you’re willing to work at it.
Comparison is the Devil
If you’re constantly comparing yourself to others, it will be difficult to be happy. We often only get to see other people’s highlight reels and then compare them to our realities. It’s a standard that no-one can live up to. You can never really know what people are like or struggling with behind closed doors. Do not compare your own life or yourself to others. Everyone is different, and it’s important to embrace your differences, rather than strive for something out of your reach.
Focus on your Qualities
If you judge a fish by its ability to climb, it will live its life believing it’s stupid – Albert Einstein. You don’t have to be good at everything. In fact, no-one is. Take pleasure in the things you are good at and enjoy your passions in life. Doing the things you love is a fantastic way to boost your self-esteem and confidence.
