Most people could use a little more self-esteem. Self-doubts, perfectionism and failure can all cause our self-esteem to drop, but luckily there are several ways to build it back up.
I, myself, am no master of self-esteem- in fact, I probably have less than most. But these five things are great ways I've found to find more self-love, and they should work for you too.
1. Allow yourself to feel proud of your accomplishments
Remember the time you landed that job, lost those pounds or worked your butt off at a long work shift? Did you allow yourself to feel proud? If you're like most people who struggle with self esteem, you probably didn't appreciate those accomplishments enough.
Years ago when I got into several prestigious colleges, I didn't feel nearly as happy as I should have. Each time I opened that envelope with those amazing words: "Congratulations, you've been accepted..." I let my friends and family celebrate but didn't exactly join in. I was too busy doubting if I'd be able to do well academically and socially at the university.
When your accomplishments come, big or small, live in the moment! Don't pass over it too quickly by allowing self-doubts to creep up about the future. Allow it to sink in that you did something great because you worked hard and you're talented.
2. Surround yourself with a solid support group
From husbands to friends to grandparents, your loved ones can be your biggest help. When you struggle with self-esteem, you deserve a solid, loving support group. So don't be afraid to ask for help, and don't be afraid to let people in.
Your loved ones will be more than happy to listen when you need to talk and help when you when you need it. Plus, when you're surrounded by people who love you, it's a lot easier to also feel a little more self-love.
3. When you find yourself comparing ... stop it!
Theodore Roosevelt once said, "Comparison is the thief of joy." Whether you're looking at another person's figure at the gym, noticing someone's higher grade or another's seemingly perfect Instagram feed, think, "that's nice for them," and move on. They're not competing to be better than you, so you shouldn't feel like you've lost.
One of the huge problems with comparison is we often compare our weaknesses to other people's strengths. Sure, your friend may have better athletic abilities, but that doesn't mean you're any less of a person- because I guarantee you have other talents youdo better at. Our different abilities and features do not make us lesser people; they're what makes us unique and interesting.
By doing these three things, we can all build lasting self-esteem. Replace those creeping self-doubts with confidence, and show yourself a little more self-love. Above all, never forget how amazing you truly are!
