3 Transformative Ways to Build Up Your Self-Esteem

It’s important to know yourself and here’s why

When it comes to our self-worth, there is only one opinion that matters, our own. And even our own opinion should be monitored because we tend to be our harshest critic.

People with low self-esteem tend to view the world as a dangerous and negative place, and themselves as powerless victims. Low self-esteem changes the way we see the world.

As a result of this, we can be reluctant to express ourselves, and miss out on opportunities, because we feel powerless. This results in even lower self-esteem, making it hard to build confidence in the first place.

But, there are many actions that we can take, to give ourselves a boost and break out of the downward spiral.

First, why is self-esteem important?

Because it is crucial that we learn and implement concrete practices that make us feel better about ourselves. This is why building our self-esteem will help us to get through the twists and turns of life.

Really, most of us have an intrinsic desire to feel valued, and to be seen for who we truly are.

We are a species that values connection with ourselves and others. And because connection boosts self-esteem, we end up feeling more supported by life and in alignment with our goals.

Increasing our self-esteem makes it easier to steer our lives in a direction that’s filled with purpose and passion. It’s important to know yourself.

It’s also much easier to build self-esteem when we believe and trust in ourselves. Being authentic can help us do just that.

But it’s infinitely more difficult to connect with authenticity when we feel lost, disconnected, and confused in life.

We wonder, what’s the purpose of life? Why are we here? It’s a mix of life experiences and social conditions that tells us we aren’t worthy of great joy and great things in life.

To overcome low self-worth, it takes a strong conviction and determination to persist, no matter what happens in life.

It’s also a mix of lifestyle adjustments and positive self-talk that can help us to chart a new course in relation to how we view ourselves.

Truly, we each have the power to shift our perspective and increase our self-esteem.

Try out these three practices to increase self-esteem:

Note: You may already be doing several of these things, and you certainly don’t have to do them all. Just try those that you feel most comfortable with.

1. Exercise

Embracing exercise isn’t about the physical alone; it’s directly correlated to improving our overall well-being.

Whatever you can do, wherever you are, take an opportunity to start (or maintain) a daily movement practice.

This can be as simple as a walk in nature, cardio video, pilates, yoga, strength training, and even chair yoga, all of which can provide benefits that keep your muscles healthy and mood elevated.

Try one out and see how the endorphins last throughout most of the day, supplying increased self-esteem, mental focus, and even creativity.

2. Establish Your Tribe

Surrounding yourself with people who “get you” is a powerful way to increase self-esteem and confidence.

Our environment, especially with whom we surround ourselves, really does have a strong impact on who we become as a person and, as a result, how we feel about ourselves.

This doesn’t have to be perfect, but doing what we can to increase the supportive and loving relationships in life pays off in spades with regard to self-esteem and overall happiness.

We all want to feel appreciated for our unique gifts, and small doses of admiration and encouragement are important for increasing connectedness to ourselves and the world we live within.

3. Embrace what makes you unique

We are all born with and able to create new talents. It doesn’t matter whether these unique gifts are natural or created after years of practice.

The key ingredient is finding ways to bring these unique gifts into the world so that our self-esteem can grow.

Each of us has something valuable that can contribute to our self-worth, happiness, community, and the world.

Another benefit of embracing our uniqueness is that it can help us find “our people,” which also increases self-esteem.

To discover your inherent gifts, take 15 minutes to brainstorm a list of the following:

What would I do with my life if failure wasn’t an option?

What do people admire about me?

When do I feel most comfortable with myself? How can I do more of this?

What brings me lasting joy?

When do I feel in sync with life?

Remember, the world needs unique minds and talents working together harmoniously in order to advance.

And when building self-esteem, it’s all about balance.

Most things are never perfect, and at times there may be setbacks or less than great days, but it always evens out because nothing ever stays the same.

The key is to persist and to show-up for whatever life brings.

Self-trust is the first secret of success. — Ralph Waldo Emerson