Confidence at Zero? Four Ways to Improve Self-Esteem
Everyone experiences times in which they lack confidence and don’t feel good about themselves, but when these feelings continue long-term, it can affect your mental health.
What is self-esteem?
Self-esteem is the opinion we have of ourselves. When someone has a healthy self-esteem, they feel positive about themselves and can generally cope with life’s inevitable ups and downs. But when someone has low self-esteem, they may engage in negative self-talk and find it more difficult to overcome challenges.
What causes low self-esteem?
Triggers of low self-esteem differ for everyone. For some it can begin with events in childhood, for others a traumatic event like the death of a loved one can trigger a downward spiral. In some cases, the reason isn’t easily pinpointed. Here are some potential triggers:
- Work or school performance
- A personal crisis
- A difficult interaction with a friend, co-worker or loved one
- A life change
Improve self-esteem
The following tips might help you improve your self-esteem.
- Acknowledge strengths. Are you good at a musical instrument, sport, art, writing or other activity? Pursue those activities you enjoy to boost your mood and overall outlook.
- Maintain positive relationships. Be around people who are sources of positive interactions instead of those who bring you down.
- Forgive yourself. Show compassion for yourself. Be kind and patient as you would with someone else.
- Focus on the positive. Encourage yourself and think about all of the good things about you and your life.
Need to talk?
Memorial Behavioral Health has counselors who can help you with emotional wellness. Find the location nearest you.
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