Activities for Self Esteem

Self-esteem, or valuing oneself as worthy of happiness and success, is an issue that many struggle with. Luckily, turning low self-esteem into healthy self-esteem need not be difficult.

Exercise

• Exercise releases chemicals called endorphins into the bloodstream. Endorphins elevate your mood and emotional outlook while reducing stress. Be sure to consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program.

Play Up Your Strengths

• Are you a good cook? Can you bowl a perfect score? Do you make people laugh? Doing the things you at which you succeed will make you feel good about yourself.

Affirmations

• Positive affirmations replace negative thoughts and improve emotional well-being, thus enhancing self-esteem. Examples of positive affirmations are: "I am a good and worthy person," "I am successful" and "I reach whatever goals I set for myself."

Listing

• In her book Journal to the Self, Kathleen Adams, M.A., suggests making lists to deal with life's problems. If the problem is low self-esteem, topics such as "Things I am Thankful For," "Things I am Good At" or "Things That Make Me Happy" may be helpful.

Don't Compare

• Stop comparing yourself to other people. There will always be people who are better or worse off than you are. Your value as a person has nothing to do with anybody else.