You’re the only person who can say how much you’re truly worth. But, watch out, don’t trust yourself too much. Often, we’re our own harshest critics and we can paint an ugly picture of ourselves. All this criticizing can completely ruin our confidence and self-esteem and even cause certain mental health issues like anxiety and depression. So how can you work on your confidence and improve your self-esteem? Here are a few good things to keep in mind.
Practice mindfulness
In order to improve the negative image of ourselves we created, we first need to realize that there’s a problem we need to change.
This is where mindfulness can come in handy. It can help us realize all the negative self-talk, distancing from our emotions and bottling up we do on a daily basis. Without mindfulness, we can easily start really believing all the nasty things we think. While it’s hard not to believe everything you think, it’s possible, because thoughts are just thoughts. So, next time you start wandering the path of criticism, note your thoughts, think about them and remind yourself that they are far away from being facts.
Stop comparing yourself to others
Instead of constantly comparing yourself to others, it’s best to start practicing acceptance. Just because someone has an Instagram page full of smiling faces and groups of friends that are having fun and traveling all the time, it doesn’t mean they are truly happy. Comparing yourself to others, especially to what you see on social media, can lead to a lot of negative thoughts. Feelings of low self-esteem can result in anxiety, stress, and depression and affect all aspects of your life, including work, relationships, school, and health.
Improve your style
Clothes don’t make a man, but they certainly help with man’s confidence. When you dress well, you instantly feel more attractive and more desirable, both of which can do wonders for your self-esteem.
If you come up with a good outfit, make sure to finish it with a nice accessory. Even a nice simple watch can make you feel powerful and attractive. Having a beautiful accessory on your wrist will give you the confidence you need in many situations.
Get moving
There are many studies that show just how good physical activity is for mental health. Exercise can improve your self-esteem and confidence and it encourages empowerment, both mental and physical. While you can go out and run or ride your bike, make sure to include some weight lifting exercises in your workout routine. Weight lifting creates a great sense of power and accomplishment. If you don’t have a habit of working out, it’s best to schedule it into your daily to-do list. Kick one task off of your list and fill it with obligatory physical activity. Soon, you’ll fall in love with exercising and all the positive feelings it gives you. Exercise also encourages people to eat better and sleep better, which can also positively affect your confidence and self-worth.
Forgive and forget
There’s probably someone in your life who did you wrong and you didn’t forgive them. Maybe an ex or a family member? Or maybe it’s yourself. No matter who it is, it’s not healthy to hold on to negative feelings—they will only grow into bitterness and resentment. Instead, try to forgive and forget and stop this cycle of shame and depression. Forgiving others and yourself will do wonders for your self-esteem because it’s an activity that connects people to our forgiving nature and promotes love and acceptance.
These tips can certainly help with self-esteem and prevent any feelings of depression and anxiety connected to it. Besides professional help, you can include these into your day and see how you feel about yourself. Your confidence will undoubtedly improve!
