People who suffer from poor self-esteem often find
themselves struggling to accomplish even the most simple of
goals. They often feel that they are not good enough, smart
enough, attractive enough or even simple just not enough.
These negative thoughts can impact  upon your life every
day.

There is hope, though. You can develop positive self-esteem
if you are willing to put the time and energy into it.

1. View mistakes as opportunities to learn something new

Try not to think of mistakes as something bad; instead take
the chance to learn something new. Life itself is a process
of learning and everyone, no matter how perfect they seem,
can learn new things.

Why are you any different? If you make a mistake, step back
from it, think about what went wrong and determine what to
do to avoid the same mistake in the future.

2. Nobody is perfect, so don’t expect yourself to be

Instead of focusing solely on perfection, focus on
obtainable goals. Do not limit yourself by your need to be
perfect. If you enjoy running, don’t wait to enter a race
until you are certain you can win; just enter the race!

3. Stop being so negative

People who suffer from low self-esteem focusing on what they
think are wrong with them. Anytime you find yourself doing
this, counter yourself with one positive thought. If you
find yourself thinking ‘I’m too fat too fit into those
jeans’, counter the thought with something like ‘I’m proud
of the fact that I’ve lost three pounds – I’ll fit into
those jeans in no time at all’.

Another excellent ‘positive thinking’ exercise is to write
down three positive things about yourself each night. After
a week or two, go back and read them; you may be surprised
to read about what a great person you are!

4. Step out of your comfort zone

Let yourself out of your ‘safe’ place and try new things. Go
to a new restaurant or try out a new hobby. It is a great
way to find out what you are really good at (or what you
really like). Take pride in that.

5. Open your mouth

Your thoughts have merit and value, so share them with
others. Do not fall into the trap that your ideas or
opinions are ‘dumb’ or ‘stupid.’ The next time someone asks
your opinion, tell them what you really think. Even if your
opinion is different to theirs, it is still valid.

6. There is no magic wand to change things

There are some things you simply cannot change. While there
are some  things about yourself you can change, like your
weight or your personal style, there are other things that
you will simply never be able to change. Instead of hating
your freckles, realize they are there to stay and try to
learn to love them.

These are just a few ideas you can use to improve your
self-esteem; however, the most important thing you can do is
remind yourself day in and day out that you are worth it,
you are more than enough.

Surround yourself with positive people who love and cherish
you. Find something positive about yourself with every
completed activity. The more you say positive things about
yourself, the easier it will be and your self-esteem and
self confidence will grow and grow over time.