Self-Esteem - what it is and how to improve it
5 small steps can make all the difference
Our self-esteem has a deep impact on the ways we live our lives. It is often shaped by our interactions with other people and by the society and culture in which we live.
Signs of low self-esteem
Many people report that their feelings of self-worth are directly related to how well they are accepted by other people. Often, our achievements (or lack thereof) form a key part in how we see ourselves. While success at work or in our personal life can be a real boost, it can also lead to a sense of competition with others, especially in settings like the workplace, in school, or at university. In these areas, we often encounter high-achieving, very confident individuals with whom we start to unfavourably compare ourselves. This can cause our self-esteem to plummet.
It is a normal thing to want to contribute to society, to matter and to make a difference, and so our self-esteem can fluctuate because of interactions with others or outside events and how that affects how we see and judge ourselves.
5 Ways to help improve self-esteem
Take time out for fun. Putting some effort into making life a pleasure rather than a chore by spending time on interests and hobbies, or trying something new. Volunteering often boosts self-esteem by connecting us to a wider community and doing something positive.
Keep well physically. Eating and drinking regularly and focusing on eating good, healthy food is a vital part of caring for ourselves. Getting enough rest and exercise also improves our self-image and overall well-being.
Reward yourself. Why not think about giving yourself a treat once a week? This could be a day out, a meal or even a hot bath. Anything that makes you feel good about yourself that you enjoy. Listen out for harsh internal dialogue and remind yourself that you're a human being and deserve kindness and care. Begin by acknowledging your strengths and achievements through self-praise.
Work on good relationships. Being proactive in making contact and building friendships and support makes us feel good. Think about how your expectations of yourself differ from your expectations of others and start to treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion as you treat the people you love, value and respect. This can take practice, but it is worth it for the long-term boost it gives to our self-esteem.
Take responsibility for change. Change is often not easy and feels risky, but we can take charge and start to look towards ourselves, making our own judgments about our self-worth. If you are struggling and need help, please get in touch.