Self-Esteem Boosters

Self-esteem is a reflection of one's emotional evaluation of their self-worth. There is such thing as negative and positive self-esteem, each with it's own defining features. Negative self-esteem occurs when we have little value in ourselves. We assume that we are unable to solve problems, move forward, focus on our weaknesses, and overall evaluate ourselves as useless. Positive self-esteem is quite the opposite. Those with this form of self-esteem are able to thrive with their perceived skills and abilities. They are able to tap into their resilience, acknowledge their strengths and are confident in the decisions they make. Obviously, we would love to operate with positive self-esteem-- life feels manageable. However, many of us fluctuate between positive and negative self-esteem.

Personally, I tend to notice negative self-esteem when I am clouded by doubt. When I begin to doubt my abilities to complete tasks effectively, make decisions, or my skills, I know that I am falling into the negative self-esteem. It's easy to remain in a state where you are constantly feeling negatively about yourself- it doesn't take much effort to find your flaws and inabilities. It is much harder to work towards positive self-esteem because it requires consistent maintenance work, but, we know that once we achieve it, we gain so much going forward.

Here are a few quick boosters that you can try to boost your self-esteem:

1. Post It Therapy- Purchase a pack of Post Its and leave it by your mirror, along with a pen. During your daily routine, as you are getting ready in the morning, use the pen to write yourself a compliment on a Post It. Comment on your hair, a strength, your smile- whatever makes you feel good. Stick the Post It on the mirror and allow it to stay until the next day. Continue until you have a mirror of compliments that serve as a reminder of who you are.

2. Get physical- Physical activities increase "feel good" hormones in your body that give you a natural high. Use that high to carry you through the day.

3. Do activities that make you happy- Sit down and ask yourself what makes you happy. Jot these down and make an honest effort to complete these. It doesn't even have to be something extravagant like going rock climbing. It can be as simple taking a bubble bath or making a really good sandwich.

4. Celebrate the little victories- Did you have the courage to get out of bed today? Did you finish that assignment? Did you avoid eating that slice of cake? Celebrate it! Pat yourself on your back and recognize your strength.

5. Window Marker Therapy- Similar to Post It Therapy, use window markers. If you have a full length mirror, outline yourself using window markers and within your outline, write out all the things that you love about yourself. Get creative! Add motivational quotes, names of your role models, your aspirations, song lyrics- literally anything!

You'll notice that these tips are simple, short and to the point. It doesn't take much effort (except for consistency) but they can do wonders in a short period of time. Try them out and let me know in the comments if you have any other quick tips!