When dealing with difficult situations like break-ups, depression and anxiety, your self-esteem can sometimes take a knock, which can really change how you see yourself. Most people go through phases where their self-esteem goes from being high to being low, this is normal. What’s important is that you don’t let low phases linger for long or even define who you are. Read this to learn how you can boost your self-esteem.

Acknowledge your mistakes

Don’t allow your shortcomings to define you. Remember that no one is perfect, which means that it’s okay to make mistakes. Rather than beating yourself up for slipping up, choose to separate your intentions from your mistakes. Learn to admit to yourself and others when you have made a mistake.

Learn to forgive yourself

You are constantly learning and while doing so, you might make decisions that make you cringe when you look back at them. It’s okay, forgive yourself. Mistakes help you grow and can make you become a better version of yourself. Choose to learn from them instead of engaging in negative self-talk. Forgive yourself for making bad decisions and think of ways to do better in the future.

Acknowledge your achievements

When you start feeling a sense of self-doubt creeping in, think about all that you have achieved and how far you have come. This will give you a sense of pride in yourself and instantly lift your self-esteem. Surround yourself with things and people who remind you of how far you have come and allow you to be grateful for the things you have.

Motivate yourself

Read inspirational stuff that will make you feel good about yourself. These should encourage self-love and acceptance. Follow social media pages that focus on positive affirmations and self-appreciation. There’s nothing wrong with reading self-help books once in a while, too.

Prioritise self-care

Prioritise taking care of yourself without compromise. When you start taking better care of yourself, you will begin to develop a positive opinion of yourself. You will become mindful of what you do, what you eat, and who you let in your life and as a result, you will choose to engage in things that encourage positive growth and self-improvement. Remember that positive self-esteem forms through habits, it’s not something that happens over night, so be patient with yourself.

How you think of yourself is very important when it comes to building your self-esteem. Surround yourself with things that encourage self-love and positive self-image and keep friends who positively affect your self-esteem. You are worth loving and admiring who you are. Don’t let negative feelings cloud the real you.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).