February is Boost Self-Esteem Month which is dedicated to helping people build on their self-confidence and belief in themselves. “Boosting self-esteem is a gradual process that involves adopting positive habits and perspectives.” Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Tom MacLaren.
Below Dr MacLaren shares his top 10 Tips to help boost self-esteem:
Practice Self-Compassion
- Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend.
- Acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes, we all have flaws.
Set Realistic Goals
- Set achievable and realistic goals to build a sense of accomplishment – you need to set yourself up for success.
- Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps.
Celebrate Achievements
- Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, regardless of their size. Keep a journal of your achievements to reflect on when you need a confidence boost.
Positive Affirmations & Self-Reflection
- Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations.
- Remind yourself of your strengths and capabilities. Take time for self-reflection to understand your values, strengths and areas for improvement. Identify negative thought patterns and work on changing them.
Surround Yourself with Positive People
- Positivity breeds positivity. Surround yourself with supportive and positive individuals who uplift and encourage you. Distance yourself from toxic relationships that contribute to negative self-perception. Focus on the positive aspects of your life
Take Care of Your Physical Health
- Exercise regularly, as physical activity can positively impact your mood and self-image.
- Exercising outdoors in the fresh air can be particularly advantageous.
- Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet to support overall well-being.
Learn and Grow
- Cultivate a growth mindset by viewing challenges as opportunities to learn and improve.
- Embrace lifelong learning and seek out new experiences.
Assertiveness
- Learn to express your needs and opinions assertively without being overly passive or aggressive.
- Set boundaries to protect your wellbeing.
Accept Imperfections
- Accept that nobody is perfect, and it’s okay to have imperfections.
- Embrace your uniqueness and value your individuality.
Seek Professional Support
- If low self-esteem is significantly impacting your life, consider seeking support from a therapist or counsellor.
Remember that building self-esteem is an ongoing process, and it’s normal to have setbacks. Be patient with yourself and stay committed to making positive changes in your life.