Building Self-Esteem
The process of building self-esteem takes time and dedication, but it is well worth the effort! What exactly is self-esteem? It is the intrinsic value that we place on ourselves, and the practice of holding ourselves in high regard, independent of outside circumstances. Even the most confident people occasionally struggle with self-esteem, however there are many ways to increase your self-esteem and self-worth.
Surround yourself with positive people
First and foremost, it is vitally important to surround yourself with positive relationships, and with people that build you up instead of tearing you down. Negative people, and the relationships that go along with them, will bring down even the happiest and most positive individuals. Building and cultivating positive relationships with friends and family is one of the most important things you can do in your quest to build self-esteem.
Recognize where your strengths lie
It may be hard to remember this when you are feeling down on yourself, but everyone has their own special strengths and talents. To instill a sense of pride in your abilities, it is important to recognize where your strengths lie. Continue to build on those strengths by focusing on gradual improvement. Make promises to yourself and keep them, then set goals and work to achieve them. Growth in self-esteem occurs during the process, not by relentlessly focusing on the outcome. Don’t expect immediate results, and you will be on your way to higher self-esteem.
The importance of physical and mental health
Perhaps your goal is to be healthier and exercise more frequently. Start by incorporating a few healthy foods in place of less healthy ones, or take a short walk outside to enjoy the fresh air. Exercise is so important for both the mind and body, and when you feel better mentally and physically, higher self-esteem will follow. The importance of self-care cannot be underestimated, and you must take care of your own mental and physical health before you can focus on others.
Be a role model to your children
If you are a parent, your role in building self-esteem is even more crucial. Building high self-esteem starts at home, and young, impressionable children are the most easily affected. If they grow up in a home where they are continually exposed to negativity, they will continue that practice as they grow older. Unfortunately, it can be a very difficult cycle to break. But if children are surrounded by supportive and encouraging parents and role models, their self-respect and self-esteem will continue to grow. Make your children feel proud of themselves, and make them feel important.
A child that is continuously turned away, tuned out or made to feel unimportant will carry those feelings of inadequacy over into every aspect of life, whether it is school, friends or extracurricular activities. Be a positive role model to your child, and never let your child hear you put yourself down through negative self-talk. When you model that behavior, your child will see that as normal and will subconsciously pick up on the habit. Negative self-talk can and will foster feelings of insecurity, anxiety and depression. Building self-esteem is one of the most important things you can do for yourself, and for the people you care about. Always remember that the process of building self-esteem begins at a young age, and healthy-minded children will grow into well-adjusted adults with a high regard for themselves and their intrinsic worth.
