How to Boost Your Self Esteem
There are many possible causes of low self-esteem, especially in our modern society where we are constantly bombarded with media and unrealistic standards. Unfortunately, low self-esteem is also a side effect of depression, because naturally when you're feeling down you can turn inward and start taking it out on yourself.
This doesn't have to be the case though. With a few lifestyle changes you can increase your confidence and learn how to boost your self esteem.
1. Identify Your Sensitivities
The first step is to find the areas in which you are sensitive. You can't expect to change your thinking habits or perspective if you don't know which areas need your attention. I find the easiest way to do this is to focus on becoming aware of the thoughts you direct at yourself. What are you saying to yourself? How do you treat yourself?
If this seems too difficult or too intense, it may be easier to write a list. Start a list of areas in which you think you're weak. This could be physical weaknesses, intelligence, appearance, socially, etc. Once you have a few written out you should have a pretty good idea of where to start.
2. Change Your Thought Patterns
Once you've identified the areas in which you are most negative you can work on adjusting your thought patterns and focus on more positive energy and encouraging thoughts. If you realize that you're about to treat yourself in an abusive or negative manner, adjust your thought patterns and compliment yourself instead.
For example, if a source of the inward negativity involves a mistake, try changing your perspective – instead of viewing the mistake as a failure, look at it as a learning experience or a lesson. Chances are you'll do what you can to avoid making the same mistake in the future so learn from your error and do your best to move on.
3. Surround Yourself with Positive People
There is a saying, "You are known by the company you keep." So make sure that you are surrounding yourself with positive and supportive friends and family.
People who constantly complain and consistently have a negative outlook on everything will bring you down and make your feel worse. Keeping close with friends and family who inspire and uplift you will in turn increase your mood and boost your self-esteem. You'll start to feel happier and more confident.
4. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
With easy access to technology and social media, we can often be overwhelmed by images and stories of perfect lives and perfect bodies.
It’s important to remember that you have been there to witness every aspect of your life, the good and the bad; but what you're seeing posted on social media and the stories that your friends and family choose to share with you are likely an edited and refined image.
