Tips to Boost Your Self-Esteem

Low self-esteem affects almost everyone at some point. We all have days when we feel that we can’t do anything right. But for some, that way of thinking becomes persistent, and it can take a toll in numerous ways.

Improving our self-esteem makes life more enjoyable for us, and it can even have a positive effect on those around us. Here are some things you can do to give your self-esteem a boost:

1. Exercise – Exercising is beneficial to us in a lot of ways. It makes us healthier and stronger, and it can also make us feel better about ourselves. Physical activity decreases our levels of stress hormones and increases endorphins, which boost our mood. Exercising also gives us a feeling of accomplishment. These things can all contribute to better self-esteem.
2. Learn how to take a compliment – Those with low self-esteem often downplay any compliments they receive. Learning to smile, saying “Thank you” and taking them to heart can make us feel better about ourselves.
3. Forgive yourself – We all make mistakes, but sometimes we have trouble letting them go and moving on. This can contribute greatly to low self-esteem. When you mess up, don’t dwell on it. Apologize, do what you can to fix it, and get over it. It’s funny how other people are often more willing to forgive us than we are to forgive ourselves!
4. Do something nice for yourself – Many of us just don’t take the time to do anything for ourselves, and as a result, our self-esteem may suffer. Going to the spa, having lunch at our favorite restaurant, or participating in our favorite hobbies can all make us feel better about ourselves.
5. Remember your strengths and accomplishments – If you’re having a particularly bad day, sit down and think about your strengths and things that you have accomplished. Writing them down is even better. Sometimes we just need to stop and remind ourselves that we do have positive qualities.
6. Do something constructive – Speaking of accomplishments, accomplishing something new is a very effective way to raise our self-esteem. Whether it’s redecorating the living room or learning how to crochet, adding a new accomplishment to our repertoire will almost always make us feel better about ourselves.
7. Meditate – Meditation leaves us refreshed and helps us put things into perspective. This can work wonders for our self-esteem.
8. Get plenty of sleep – When you’re not well rested, chances are you’re not going to be in a very good mood. And if you already have self-esteem problems, that will only make them worse. So make sure you get an adequate amount of sleep each night.