How to Improve Self Esteem in Women

Women battle with self esteem issues every day. With the media and the perception of an ideal beauty being so strongly influential on today's women, the idea of having unique beauty is not often praised and confidence is often compromised when an individual compares herself to another. Self esteem is a powerful psychological makeup that each individual must come to understand and appreciate, otherwise the views an individual has on herself does not only affect her, but also her family, friends and overall health.

Instructions

• 1

  Achieve a positive outlook about yourself. For one week meet with yourself in the mirror and with confidence, speak about your inner beauty and speak positivity about yourself. This includes traits and attributes that makes you feel beautiful, strong and confident. Write down these affirmations and keep this chart wherever you often find yourself thinking negatively. When you speak these affirmations, you are speaking them into existence and within yourself. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, psychiatrist and writer says so poetically, "People are like stained-glass windows: They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is light from within."

• 2

  Be honest with yourself on who you are and what makes you unique. Consider if you view yourself as worthwhile and how physical appearance affects your views. This quote from model Kim Stoltz talks about honesty; "To me, true beauty means being honest, having a confident opinion... and being exactly who you are, regardless of others judgments." Keep a journal with any honest feelings you have about yourself, negative and positive. For the negative, ask yourself the question why you have this view and what action you can take to understand yourself and build confidence. For the positive, highlight these points and make a note of why these positives make you unique, beautiful and strong.

• 3

  Be professionally photographed. It is good to sometimes think outside your comfort level, and be inspired in new ways. Take a look at photographer's work and portfolios. Choose a photographer who has a similar style to your preference. Being photographed professionally is a great experience for boosting your positivity, confidence and self esteem in yourself. Some photographers may have a makeup artist and stylist on staff. See your session as a renewing of your self esteem and a celebration of your unique beauty.