Ten Ways to Boost Your Self-Esteem

Raise your hand if you’ve ever struggled with self-confidence. That’s pretty much all of us, right? So, what can be done about it? According to life coach Oksana Redfern, quite a lot.

If you’re not content with your current life situation, don’t fret—you have the power to change it. Even small adjustments can lead to significant improvements.

If tackling all ten of these self-esteem boosters at once feels overwhelming, start with just one. Once you’ve mastered it, move on to the next. You can even set up a two-week plan, implementing one tip each day.

1. Reprogram Your Mind

Think of your brain as the ultimate computer. Like any sophisticated system, it needs regular maintenance.

- **Positive Self-Talk**: Use affirming language. Swap out phrases like “I shouldn’t eat so much” with “I can eat healthy food.”

- **Celebrate Small Wins**: Acknowledge even minor achievements, like arriving at work on time or remembering a friend’s birthday.

- **Let Go of Negatives**: If something’s bothering you, acknowledge it, learn from it, and then let it go.

- **Gratitude Before Sleep**: Reflect on six things that made you happy today.

- **Positive Sleep Questions**: Before sleeping, ask yourself positive questions like “How can I be more successful?”

2. Start Your Day Positively

Mornings can set the tone for your entire day. Ask yourself these questions before getting out of bed:

- Am I closer to an answer I sought last night?

- What am I happy about in my life?

- What am I excited about?

- What am I proud of?

- What am I grateful for?

- What am I committed to?

- Who do I love?

- Who loves me?

3. Build Your Social Network

High self-esteem often correlates with being sociable. Break the negative cycle by integrating more social interactions into your life.

- **Join Groups**: Volunteer or join clubs. Helping others can boost your self-worth.

4. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity, especially outdoors, can significantly elevate your mood and physical confidence.

- **Feel-Good Chemicals**: Exercise releases endorphins, improving your body image and energy levels.

5. Learn to Relax

Anxiety and stress can be major self-esteem killers.

- **Breathing Techniques**: Practice breathing like a relaxed, confident person.

- **Meditation and Yoga**: Consider these practices to become a master of poise and positive energy.

6. Make Your Own Choices

Take a moment to evaluate your career and relationships.

- **Ask Yourself**: Is this job or person bringing positive feedback and joy? If not, it might be time for a change.

7. Reflect Daily

Incorporate reflection into your daily routine.

- **Diary Writing**: Instead of focusing on what went wrong, write about your goals, achievements, unexpected joys, and new insights.

8. Refresh Your Environment

Your surroundings can significantly impact your mood.

- **Declutter**: Clear out the clutter and introduce bold, inspiring colors.

- **Inspiring Music**: Create a soundscape that lifts your spirits.

9. Treat Yourself Like a VIP

Show yourself the kindness you’d show your best friend.

- **Self-Care Day**: Treat yourself to a spa day, new clothes, or a relaxing activity.

10. Emulate a Role Model

If you’re struggling to adopt a new, confident persona, think of someone you admire and emulate their behavior.

- **Be Your Own Role Model**: Reflect on times when you felt confident and in control, and channel that version of yourself.

By implementing these strategies, you can start to build a stronger, more confident you. Remember, even small changes can make a big difference.