We all struggle from time to time when it comes to how we feel about ourselves. The ups and downs of how we feel can be caused by many internal and external sources. These fluctuations are natural, normal, and typically temporary. Prolonged feelings of self-doubt, self-loathing, and a poor opinion of ourselves are not ideal and can be overcome.
Where does self worth come from
Our day-to-day opinion or feelings of our self can be impacted by many outside sources. A bad review at work, an unkind comment, and others can drive us to negative thinking for a short time. If you are waiting to feel good about yourself when you make a certain amount of money, attract a certain person, or look a certain way, you will always be disappointed. You will find that the goalpost of success is always moving-people can let you down, you can get fired, you could lose your savings, or your physical appearance could be altered in a second.
Our overall feeling of self should come from internal sources. An intrinsic understanding of our value is key to improving self-esteem. A positive and affirming internal monologue should be the guiding voice the influences how we feel about ourselves.
How to improve self-esteem
Developing a positive mindset and internal voice can be a challenge, especially if you haven’t had uplifting communications in your youth or from those around you. However, you deserve to have peace now. Developing a positive view of yourself will take power from external sources and allow you to determine how you feel about yourself.
Here are some ways that you can improve your self-esteem:
- Practice gratitude
- Exercise regularly
- Be compassionate with yourself
- Validate your feelings
- Repeat daily affirmations why you like yourself
- Recognize when you do good
- Work towards goals
- Practice daily self-care
- Try new things
- Reward or recognize when you pushed your comfort zone
- Journal the ways you are growing and caring for yourself
Start slowly with one or two items to get started and you’ll find many other ways to improve your self-esteem come naturally and easily. If focusing on improving your self-esteem is causing you distress or anxiety, or if nothing seems to improve, you may be looking at more serious conditions, such as depression. We can help identify the root of your low self-esteem and improve your mental health.
Request an appointment today
If you need additional help improving your self-esteem, or if you feel that your feelings of self-worth go deeper than just low self-esteem, our team is here to help. If you’re not sure how a therapist can help you, be sure to read our recent post on why you should see a therapist.
Request an appointment today and start improving your mental health.
