Self-esteem simply means our belief/perception about ourselves. It can be positive or negative. Nothing is more important than ones perception about oneself. The more positive feelings you have about yourself, the higher your positive self-esteem. Here are ways in which you can develop your self esteem.
(1.) Always think positive about yourself.
To build a positive self esteem, it is necessary that you always think positively about yourself. Believe in yourself and your abilities. Also believe that your weaknesses are only temporary and can be overcome with increasing determination, commitment and perseverance. This will help you to remain confident and even assertive. It gives you the drive to always be optimistic even in the face of very difficult situations. You will always have the “ I CAN ” mentality and even believe “I CAN DO BETTER”. With this, you will always maintain a good self image which will make you feel superior to others. Negative image leads to inferiority complex and this can be very deadly to anybody.
(2). Say “STOP” to your inner critic.
A good step to start with in raising your self-esteem is by learning how to handle and to replace the voice of your own inner critic. It can spur you on to getting things done in an expertise manner and to gain acceptance from people in your life. However, if you don’t strive to raise it, the effect could drag you amidst the debris of the floor for life. This inner voice could be very funny if not managed or controlled and can whisper some repulsive things to your ears such as: “ you’re very lazy and sloppy; You are uglier than all your friends; You can now be convinced that you have failed right now that all your plans are not working out” and so on. Always say “STOP” to such voice whenever it raises its ugly head in your mind. Replace it with something positive and enviably constructive. Remember make it a habit.
(3). Motivate yourself
To reduce the destructive effect of negative inner critic, it’s necessary you motivate yourself by doing those things you have so much passion for. Naturally, excellence will be achieved then convincing thoughts of uniqueness will start to drive you into trying other things/tasks which ordinarily you couldn’t have attempted. You would be astonished the level of success you will be making.
(4). Do the right thing
When you do what you deep down think are right, You will start gaining the confidence of people around you. By so doing, you raise and strengthen your self-esteem or worth.
(5). Be sociable
Always keep good interpersonal relationships. Relating and associating well with others help to boost your self confidence. It offers you the opportunity to exhibit mutual help and responsibility with others in terms of character corrections. With all these, over time, you will overcome whatever downgrading thoughts and attendant inferiority complex loneliness or socially withdrawn lifestyle would have caused you.