Poor self-esteem affects more than just your self image. A
poor self-image can make relationships with family and
friends difficult create stress, anxiety and loneliness. It
is one of the leading causes of depression and can
negatively impact job or academic performance. Finally, poor
self-esteem often leads to underachievement and
susceptibility to alcohol and drug abuse.
In an unfortunate cycle effect, the more the negative
impacts of a poor self-esteem become evident, the worse the
sufferer is likely to feel. This can lead to a quick spiral
downward in to deep depression that may lead to
self-destructive behavior.
If you have made the all important step to decide you want
to change your poor self-esteem and believe that you can,
there are three critical steps that can help you increase
your self-esteem. Remember that it took you a long time to
get to your low point and it is likely to take a long time
to heal completely, but you can improve your self-esteem.
Step One: Silencing the Negative Voice
Perhaps the most critical step in improving the way you see
yourself is silencing the negative inner voice. Learning how
to effectively combat that negativity will help foster a
positive self image. It’s not as difficult as it sounds.
For example, imagine you have an important presentation to
make at work. After the presentation, your negative voice is
likely to start immediately pointing out all of your errors,
regardless of how well you actually did.
When this happens, try telling yourself three positive
things about the presentation. Perhaps someone agreed with
a point you made, or maybe you got some chuckles from your
opening joke, find three positive points, whatever they are,
and you will soon find that negative voice fading into the
background.
Step Two: Realize You Are Worth It
Another critical part of healthy self-esteem is self love,
so it is critical you begin to treat yourself like a
competent, worthwhile person. Low self-esteem often comes,
at least in part, from the way people have treated us in
our past, combating this history by learning to love
yourself is an excellent step in improving your low
self-esteem.
Treating yourself like a worthwhile person involves three
simple steps.
First take care of yourself physically. Eat enough, sleep
regularly, and work out to take care of your physical needs.
Second, have some fun. You do not need to be ‘on’ all the
time, so take some time out of your schedule to do something
you truly enjoy. Take a walk, read a book, learn to paint,
whatever it is that makes you feel relaxed. Enjoy yourself.
Finally, recognize accomplishments by rewarding yourself.
Treat yourself to a night out after a good review, or have
breakfast with friends after a hard week.
Step Three: Learn to Ask For and Accept Help
It is an unfortunate fact that many people who suffer from
low self-esteem are often uncomfortable asking others for
help. It is difficult for them to admit they cannot do it on
their own, but in order to be successful, it is important to
have the help and support of y our friends and family.
Let them know you are struggling with low self-esteem. You
may be surprised to hear the wonderful and true things they
have to say about you. Also, do not be afraid to seek the
help of a qualified councilor. Asking for help is not a sign
of weakness; it is a sign of great strength.
If you suffer from poor self-esteem, it is possible to
correct the problem. By learning to silence your negative
inner voice, learning that you are a worthwhile person and
asking for and accepting help, you will soon find your way
to a greater love of yourself.
