There are times in our lives where we may not value ourselves or we perceive our existence in a negative light. These are indications of a low self-esteem. Fortunately, there are ways to bring that confidence and self-respect back into your life.
While low self-esteem can negatively affect every part of your life, high self-esteem will have you feeling confident, valuable, and worthy, says Psych Central, an information hub dedicated to mental health.
However, to maintain a high self-esteem may not always be easy.
Follow the below tips to give your self-esteem a bit of a boost.
Surround yourself with positive people
Psych Central shares that it is important to evaluate those around you and focus on the relationships that build you up. “Consider setting boundaries with people who may not be inclined to support you.”
Monitor self-talk
Dr Margaret Delong, a licensed psychologist, tells Psych Central people should be aware of how they talk to themselves. This can be important for developing ways to deal with negative thoughts before they turn into beliefs that have an impact on one’s self-esteem.
As a way to challenge those negative thoughts, consider daily affirmations. Licensed marriage and family therapist Kori Hennessy explains, “Affirmations are simple, positive statements about yourself. You can say them out loud or write them down. You don’t have to believe them at the start, the goal is to work up to believe them.”
Recognise situations that may affect your self-esteem
Health and wellness publication Mayo Clinic suggests we think about situations that cause low self-esteem. Situations that may trigger these feelings include a change in roles or life events, a crisis at work or home, or even a challenge with a spouse, loved one, or colleague.
Adjust your thoughts and beliefs
Try implementing the following strategies to replace negative thoughts with positive ones, according to Mayo Clinic:
- Avoid ‘should’ and ‘must’ statements.
- Consider what you’ve learned.
- Encourage yourself.
- Focus on the positive.
- Forgive yourself.
- Relabel upsetting thoughts.
- Use hopeful statements.
Develop a practice of daily gratitude
Dr Delong shares that practising gratitude is a great way to lift your spirit, boost energy, and counteract negative thoughts. “When we are struggling with negative thoughts related to the self that affect self-esteem, getting into a positive energy state by focusing on one thing that we are grateful for is one way to get into a lighter mood to help any practice be more effective.”
Also see: The best ways to forgive yourself
