5 Ways to Raise Your Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem has become an epidemic in this country, and one that negatively impacts our quality of life. Feelings of being unworthy can begin at a young age and build up over time leading to depression and anxiety for some people.
Finding ways to feel better about ourselves and our abilities is important part of enjoying life. Here are 5 ways to increase your self-esteem:
- Quiet That Inner Critic
Negative self-talk is a common issue for people with low self-esteem. If you’re one of those people whose inner critic is constantly beating them up, it’s important you learn to turn the volume down or change the channel. The first step is to have awareness of the negative comments and then see if you can re-frame them to neutral or positive. For example, “I’m so stupid, I never do anything right” would feel better as “math is challenging for me, so I need to give my self more time and ask for help if I need it.”
Also, work on resetting the balance on where you put your attention. We naturally tend to focus more on weaknesses, so make an effort to focus on your strengths and abilities.
- Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
We are all so unique. Sadly, instead of celebrating what makes us individuals, many of us spend time comparing ourselves to others. Then, in the areas where we find we don’t quite measure up, we feel inadequate. When you recognize that all people have strengths and weaknesses, you can stop comparing yourself to others and instead concentrate on being the best version of you that you can be.
- Give Up the Quest to be Perfect
Being human means being imperfect. We all have flaws, we are all works in progress, and that’s okay. Striving for the impossible is futile and exhausting. Even Hollywood’s A-listers are often photoshopped and many have been treated for depression and addiction. They are human and struggling like anyone else.
Stop setting yourself up for failure by trying to be perfect. Instead set attainable goals for yourself and let yourself feel successful!
- Start Loving Your Body
Many people struggle with body image issues. Much of it is because of the perfectionism and photoshopping I just mentioned. It’s hard to love your body when you are expected to look like the people who grace the covers of magazines.
Instead of focusing on what you don’t like about your body, focus on being healthy. Be grateful for what is working and nurture you body and mind with healthy choices that make you feel good.
- Cut Back on Social Media
Social media has its good points, but it can also set unrealistic expectations regarding relationships and lifestyles. It’s important to remember that online, people tend to only post images that make their lives seem awesome, but that’s only part of the story. How many of us post the picture that made us cringe when we looked at it? Spending too much time looking at other people leading fun lives can lead us to spending less time enjoying our own.
If self-esteem issues have become a serious problem in your life, leading to anxiety and depression, consider working with a therapist who can help you work through your memories and emotions. If you or a loved one is interested in exploring treatment, please contact me today. I would be happy to speak with you about how I may be able to help in a free initial consultation to discuss your needs.
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