7 Ways To Build Your Self Esteem

Do you believe that the world is a hostile place and you are a victim? Are you the one who often doubts his or her abilities? If so, you might be showing signs of low self-esteem. Interestingly, self-esteem has nothing do with your actual ability or talent. Your looks, weight or skills are not responsible for your low self esteem. It largely depends upon the fact that how you value yourself. It has been observed in most cases that self-esteem is often affected by a number of reasons, including ill-health, unpleasant memories from the past, and termination of relationships. Low self-esteem may also be marked in survivors of physical or sexual abuse, victims of racial discrimination or people who have had a traumatic past life.

Having said that, some people may be experiencing low self esteem for reasons far beyond the above two. If you don’t pay attention towards this issue, you might end up developing some other personality issues, or difficulties with thoughts & emotions. Low self-esteem is the root cause behind the occurrence of many emotional or mental difficulties, including depression, or other personality issues. However, there is nothing to worry about it. There are certain simple things that are useful in building up your self-esteem.

Here’s all that you need to do to start believing in yourself and be confident about your capabilities:

1. Remember your strong points: Make three separate lists of your strengths; achievements and your qualities that you admire. Take help from your friends, parents and other well-wishers for preparing these lists. These lists will help you in understanding your abilities and goodness. You will be able to believe in your strengths. You must read through these lists at least once daily.
2. Be positive: Optimism and a positive approach towards life are the key to success. Your self-esteem is influenced by the fact that how you look at life. Life is not a bed of roses. It is unavoidable that you will have to face critical situations or problems in life. But, what is important is to face them with courage and a faith in your own abilities. Be positive and stop developing negative thoughts about yourself. Get rid of thoughts like ‘I am a loser’; ‘I can’t get rid of this problem’; etc.
3. Take care of your body: Your outward appearance sometimes works wonders in lifting up your inner-self and spirits. Keep yourself clean, and maintain overall personal hygiene to develop a feeling of goodness. Invest time in working on how you'd like to present yourself.
4. Sleep well: A good night’s sleep is essential for boosting up your self - esteem.
5. Eat right: A balanced diet is a key to good health. Eating the right food in the right way keeps your mental and physical health all right. Include minerals and vitamins in your regular meals. Avoid distractions like television or radio while taking meals.
6. Exercise: Regular workouts keep you away from mental-ill health.
7. Be cool and comfortable first: When it comes to your dressing, try to put on attires that you can carry well. Wear stuffs that you love the most.

Lastly, don't shy away from talking to a professional counsellor to resolve your self esteem issues. Some think of counselling as a sign of weakness or embarrassment. In reality, seeking help is a sign of strength and your effort towards bringing about a change in your life. A trained psychologist can not only help you overcome the past, but also help you learn the appropriate skills for positive behaviours, boosting your self confidence. In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!