MULTIPLE RESEARCHES indicate that if you find yourself saying negative things about who you are, there are seven ways to improve your self-esteem, as follows:
1. Laugh at Yourself. If you make a mistake or do something you think is stupid, instead of beating yourself up, try to laugh. Laughing at yourself rather than over-analyzing your actions helps you develop a positive relationship with who you are.
2. Look for the Positive. Every one of us has strengths and qualities that make us unique. Take a moment to list out what you like about yourself such as what are your skills and natural talents?
Think about how you’d treat your best friend. Giving yourself compliments and encouragement can shift your perspective and enhance your self-esteem.
3. Make Decisions That Make You Feel Good About Yourself. Every day, we make countless small and big decisions. The trick is to make decisions that align with your values and make you feel good about yourself. Whether it’s taking time to play with your kids, supporting a friend, or drinking more water, small positive choices add up.
As you make decisions that reflect the best version of yourself, you’ll notice an improvement in how you view yourself. Self-esteem thrives when you choose actions that resonate with your self-worth.
4. Accept Who You Are. Embrace both your strengths and your flaws because we all have both. When you accept yourself, you start to feel comfortable in your own skin and enjoy your own journey.
5. Do Kind Acts for Others. Sometimes, when your thoughts are dragging you down, the best thing you can do is shift your focus outward. Help someone else even in small ways. Whether it’s just talking to a neighbor, smiling at someone, or just holding the door open, kind acts make both the receiver and the giver feel good.
6. Keep the Promises You Make. One of the fastest ways to damage your self-esteem is to break promises, whether they’re to yourself or others. That’s why I focus on keeping my commitments, even as simple as attending a party. Of course, it’s okay to say no when needed, but if you make a promise, do it. Each time you keep your word, your self-esteem grows because you prove to yourself that you can trust yourself.
7. Exercise. When you exercise, you feel stronger, more confident, and energized. Exercise boosts your mood with endorphins and helps you feel proud of what your body can do. Plus, it can be a great way to clear your mind and focus on the present moment. By Manny Palomar, PhD (EV Mail June 2-8, 2025 Issue)
