How Can I Improve Self-Esteem?
Self-esteem refers to the degree in which we positively evaluate ourselves. It represents how much we value ourselves, and often what we have accomplished. If we are constantly finding ourselves not living up to expectation, it becomes easy to focus on negative thoughts, and more difficult to take on challenges in life – affecting everything from our careers, physical health, and relationships. By taking these steps to improve self-esteem, you can begin to see yourself in a more positive light, and learn how to become the person you want to be.
1. Challenge Negative Thinking
The first step to bolstering your self-esteem is to challenge any negative thoughts about yourself that you may have. Although it can be difficult to begin with, start by asking yourself whether your view is in line with facts and logic.
2. Adjust Your Thought Patterns
Once you have challenged your negative thinking, the next step is to replace these thoughts with positive ones. Try to use hopeful statements, be encouraging to yourself in your pursuits, and remember to give yourself credit for making positive changes.
3. Stop Comparing Yourself to Other People
Self-esteem and self-confidence should never be connected to how well other people are doing. Although it can be tricky to avoid comparing yourself to others, it’s important to remember that you are not in competition with anyone else’s life or progress.
4. Forgive Yourself
Everybody makes mistakes – but they are not a permanent reflection on you as a person. Building self-esteem means that you need to forgive yourself for any past mistakes, without judging yourself harshly. This is essential in order to move forwards in life.
5. Celebrate Small Victories
Whether you successfully face one of your fears, or practiced some positive self-talk, it’s important to celebrate every small win. By acknowledging feelings of pride and confidence, your self-confidence will grow.
6. Seek Professional Support
Self-esteem counselling is designed to help you to see a different version of who you are that is more in line with the person you want to be. Professional therapy can also help you to understand the feedback that has shaped your self-esteem, and how that has made an impact on your life.
Self Esteem Counselling Guildford & Wimbledon
Our team of psychologists at Dianne Everitt & Associates provide self-esteem counselling in Guildford and Wimbledon that will enable you to successfully cultivate self-compassion. Using approaches including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), our compassionate therapists will help you to change negative thinking, in order to become the best version of yourself.
If you are ready to receive the help needed to improve your self-esteem, contact one of our team today to book your free online initial 20-minute consultation.
