Self-esteem can be a slippery concept: in theory, it’s simply about valuing yourself as a person and treating yourself with compassion. However it can be difficult to put into practice, because ideas about ourselves are often fixed in deep rooted beliefs that are not easy to change.
Improving low-self esteem that has developed over many years may be a long-term process, and it is often related to other mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. However, almost everybody can use a quick self-esteem booster from time to time. Here are a few simple and easy ways to lift your sense of self worth.
Smile
Being told to ‘smile, it might never happen’ by a passing stranger can be profoundly irritating, but maybe they have a point! Scientists believe that smiling naturally releases endorphins that can lift our mood and help us relax, even when we really don’t feel inclined to do so.
Smiling is also a universally recognised facial expression that will make other people respond to you more positively and feel at ease in your presence.
Sit up straight
This is another seemingly trivial gesture that can sound like a nagging order, but again there is some truth in it. Good posture allows blood and oxygen to be carried around the body more efficiently, which can help you to think more clearly and stay calm in stressful situations.
Walking tall also makes you appear more relaxed and confident, and this sends out a positive message to the rest of the world. Hold your head up high and keep those negative thoughts at bay.
Do some physical exercise
Being physically active is another way to release the feel-good endorphins in the body and help to keep stress and anxiety under control. This in turn can make you feel better about yourself and more capable of dealing with life’s obstacles.
Exercise can seem like a daunting prospect if you have never seriously committed to any before, but it doesn’t have to be as drastic as joining a gym or getting a personal trainer. Even a simple 10 minute walk every day can make you feel happier.
Make time for your hobbies
We tend to enjoy activities that we have a natural talent for and are good at. Think about your hobbies and interests, and make sure that you are devoting enough time to them. This is not only enjoyable and rewarding, but it helps to build up a positive self image.
Learn a new skill
It might be that you have more than one talent and there are still aspects of yourself that are waiting to be unfurled. Mastering a new skill can give the confidence to make changes in other areas of your life, as well as bringing a sense of accomplishment and taking you out of your usual thought patterns.
Practice self-compassion
Everyone makes mistakes or gets rejected at some point. Learning how to treat yourself with kindness and compassion can take some time, but it is one of the best ways to make a lasting difference to your self esteem.
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