Having a healthy self-esteem means loving yourself unconditionally, warts and all. For those of us who struggle with our self-confidence and self-esteem it’s easy to slip into negative cycles of thought, believing that we are worthless, not good enough, undeserving of happiness and fulfillment and are unable to make decisions. We find it difficult to assert ourselves, always take the blame regardless of where the fault truly lies, experience misplaced feelings of guilt and have the generally and often overwhelming perception that nobody likes us. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter who likes us and what other people think of us. It really comes down to what we think of ourselves and to go about our lives authentically, living in a way that ultimately makes us happy.
When we unlock the power of positive self-esteem we live happier, healthier, more fulfilling lives and are capable of achieving personal success.
Here are a few simple ways to boost your self-esteem:
1) BE KIND
This one is top of the list for a reason. Being kind has to begin with kindness towards yourself. We’re all trying to get through life and sometimes it can be hard. Don’t make things even harder on yourself by beating yourself up about every little thing you do. Be your own best friend. Give yourself compliments and stop imposing impossible standards to live up to. If you start hearing that old tape of negative thoughts start to play, switch it off immediately and start recording new thoughts and ideas that build yourself up.
2) Stop perpetuating the cycle
Stop listening to songs that bring you down and affirm negative feelings. Push yourself from the moment you wake up to change your perception about how your day is going to go. Choose happiness. Listen to happy songs. Read inspirational messages. Break free from the negative cycle.
3) Look for the good
Look for the good in yourself and others. By entering into a situation in a mode of defensiveness you are attracting negativity. Go into every situation with a loving and empathic heart. Expect the best of others, be generous and rise above any drama that comes your way.
4) Self-care
It’s important to exercise, bath and shower regularly, style your hair and dress in a way that makes you feel good.
5) Action determines thought
Sometimes you have to act confident and comfortable in order to trick your mind into believing it. A simple way to begin is to sit up straight with our shoulders back and our stomachs relaxed. Claim your personal space and be assertive about maintaining your boundaries.
6) Make sure you aren’t surrounded by mean people
Be aware of who you surround yourself with. Your inner circle should only include people who build you up and support you. It’s okay not to get on with everyone. Get to know yourself and what really works for you and don’t feel guilty or afraid to extract yourself from “friendships” that aren’t fulfilling or positive.
7) Don’t compare yourself to others
You are a unicorn in this world. Don’t be a barracuda and follow the crowd just because everyone is doing it and it’s shiny. Not all that glitters is gold. March to the beat of your own drum. People that deserve to be in your life are the ones that love you for you. Be unapologetically you.
8) Leave your comfort zone
It’s good to put yourself out there every now and then. Be prepared to break previously-held perceptions of situations, people and places. You might surprise yourself. That being said, if you really don’t feel comfortable doing something don’t be afraid to speak up. Know your principles and stand by them.
9) Allow yourself to make mistakes
We’re all human and we all make mistakes. Don’t get so caught up in them that you can’t move on. Pick yourself up, forgive yourself and try again. The past no longer exists. Now that you know better, do better.
10) Laugh!
Don’t take life or yourself too seriously. Worrying has never solved anything. Breathe, brush it off and relax.
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