5 Positive Ways To Build Self-Esteem (These Actually Work!)

Research has shown that one of the biggest reasons people lack drive and ambition is due to having low self esteem. In fact, your self esteem can literally mean the difference between feeling motivated and self-assured, or feeling inferior, and lacking the drive you need to succeed.

Low self-esteem truly holds you back and stops you from living your life the fullest. But in all honesty, we all experience low self-esteem from time-to-time. We've all had those moments where we think "I couldn't do that, I'm not good enough.” But this is nothing more than a self-evaluation and not necessarily a reflection of the truth.

Luckily, you can take measures to build your self-esteem. Measures that will help you achieve the healthy self-image you need to succeed, and it’s easier than you think. If this sounds like something you can benefit from, then read on for five practical tips for building self-esteem.

#1 Look Good To Feel Good

You don't need to look sharp every time you walk out the door, but taking a little extra pride, and effort in your preparation when getting ready can work wonders for your self-esteem. Like the saying goes, "if you look good, you feel good." Others also respond favorably when you look sharp, and who knows, you may even find a new look that knocks 'em dandy!

#2 Aim High But Not Too High

There's nothing wrong with aiming high in life, but if your expectations are unrealistic and you fail to meet them, you will damage your self-esteem. On the other hand, if you set realistic goals follow through on them, and achieve them, you strengthen your self-confidence and self-belief. When you routinely succeed, your self-esteem will skyrocket, and you will feel more confident that you can do anything you put your mind to.

#3 Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

When you move beyond your comfort zone and conquer the unknown, you conquer self-doubt, and strengthen your self-esteem. So go ahead and book that skydive, take those driving lessons or sign up for that evening class. Who knows, when you put your mind to it, you may be pleasantly surprised when you achieve things that you never thought you could.

#4 Give Yourself a Pat On The Back

Too often, we beat ourselves up for under-achieving or failing, but seldom do we pat ourselves on the back for our achievements. It's a natural inclination to want to do better, but if you don't take pride and celebrate your successes along the way, you will always feel like your under-performing which lowers your self-worth. From now on, when you achieve something, pat yourself on the back and reward yourself, after all you earned it.

#5 Nurture Your Inner-Dialogue

Your inner-dialogue plays a crucial role in how you perceive yourself. If your stream of thoughts are predominantly negative, then they will influence your beliefs. Actively work to weed out the self-destructive dialogue and replace it with statements that are positive. No more telling yourself “I can’t do that.” Instead, think “I can,” and “I will.”

The Bottom Line

There you have it, five practical ways to build your self-esteem. Promise yourself today that you will make a commitment to building your self-esteem. In the end, the effort you put in will be directly proportionate to what you gain.