How to Grow Confidence & Self Esteem

Self-esteem and confidence play a big role in our lives. Those traits can propel us toward our dreams and healthy lifestyles and inspire us when we're down. When we have low self-esteem, life can seem sad, intolerable and dark. With high self-esteem (which leads to confidence) we can dramaticlly improve our lives. Confidence and self-esteem enable us to work through hard times without falling prey to negative feelings. It is possible, according to the website for "Psychology Today" Magazine, to improve one's self-esteem. There is no one-step fix, but there are many things one can do to build confidence.

Instructions

• 1

  Keep notes about your achievements.

  Look at the areas of your life that you are proud of: achievements, awards, good things you've done for others and important steps you've taken for yourself. Make a list of these items and reflect on them. Purchase a special journal that will be dedicated to listing the things you are proud of and the goals you have for yourself. These things could include waking up early to make breakfast for your family or buying a new bike to promote a healthier lifestyle. Look at the little things. Write in this journal each day.

• 2

  Smile when you look at yourself in the mirror.

  Learn to accept your flaws. Keep your journal for positive entries and block out the thoughts about your flaws and limitations. Know that each person is capable of good and--sometimes--bad. Accept that these are truths for every individual. According to "Psychology Today" Magazine's website, it is important for a person to recognize that they are worthy despite their flaws. Make a list of your bad behaviors and look at how each of them fits into your life. Say out loud that you accept the behaviors but that you will work to change them.

• 3

  Develop a healthy work-out routine.

  Look in the mirror each day and vocalize what you like about yourself: your eyes, lips, height, hair, skin tone or anything else. Recognize that there are good things about you, and that you are unique and beautiful. According to the website Pick The Brain, developing a good work-out regimen may be the key to building confidence and self-esteem. Working-out not only gives a person a body goal, it releases positive endorphins within the brain. Work out according to a schedule you've developed for yourself.

• 4

  Catch your bad thoughts and think positively.

  Learn how to think rationally in your daily life. Beyond focusing on good things about yourself, think positively in your everyday interaction with others. According to Mind Tools, people often train themselves to think negatively. Be aware of when you think negative things about yourself and correct them when these thoughts occur. Write down your negative thoughts in a journal, accept them and let them go. Focus on positive thinking when negative thoughts materialize.

• 5

  Make everyday adjustments. Stand tall with good posture. Smile during your daily activities. Dress well and surround yourself with things that make you feel good about yourself.