How Do I Increase My Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem is best defined as how you feel about yourself. Having positive self-esteem is important for overall happiness. If you feel like you are struggling with self-esteem, read on to learn how you can build on what you have.

Identify Your Strengths

Everyone has little things they are good at. Each person is unique, which means that each person possesses unique skills they may not even recognize. Some people play musical instruments, are good students, or have specialized careers. These strengths are obvious and can be easily recognized by others. However, many of us have strengths that are not seen quite so easily. 

For example, maybe you are a person who is great with directions. Even without a map, you always seem to know the way and can find your destination by following landmarks or using your sense of where you are. Some people can remember every recipe they get their hands on. They barely even have to look as they are cooking. It is almost like muscle memory, even when it is not one of their signature dishes. Some people form bonds with animals quickly and seem to be a magnet for other people’s pets. 

Monitor the things you do for a week. What are you great at that you never realized before? Write down your strengths along with other positive attributes.

Build on Your Strengths

As you collect your strengths, try to build on them. As you do, you may find out that other people have noticed you have these strengths too. If you are a grill master, offer to grill for friends and family. If you are a great water skier, try going out for a few more boat rides this summer. 

If you are a great parent, be present with your kids and show off your skills — see if they inherited your knack for flipping pancakes or your ability to roll your tongue. As you build on your skills and share them with others, your list of strengths will grow, as will your self-esteem.

Recognize That You Are Important

Some people think they need to be powerful to have self-esteem. Think of your strengths and remember that your presence has a purpose for all the people in your life. Perhaps your purpose is being the neighbor who always waves and makes everyone feel welcome. Perhaps you are the grandparent who shows up at every school event and brings treats. Or perhaps you are the voice of reason for someone else who is struggling with self-esteem issues.

Build Your Confidence

Confidence and self-esteem go hand-in-hand when it comes to believing in yourself. One of the best ways to build confidence is through preparation. Preparing for events like an interview, a show, a date, or a travel opportunity can help you boost your confidence, even if you are nervous. 

Preparation can also help you go into any situation without fear — for example, in the event of an accident, knowing CPR and being prepared for life-threatening situations can help you feel relaxed and less afraid. Many people carry pepper spray or take self-defense classes in order to feel confident walking alone.  Whatever you choose to do, prepare properly so you can feel ready for your big moments.

The Power of Positive Thinking

Another way to build your confidence is to practice positive thinking. Instead of going into a situation thinking negatively, think about what you could learn or get out of this particular event. Prepare for positivity by interacting with others kindly, saying hello, or smiling. Smiling has been scientifically proven to help improve our mood, even if we have nothing to smile about! 

If you are really struggling to think of something positive, try focusing on tiny details you appreciate. If the flowers in the office are particularly pretty, take a moment to focus on them and how they make your life a little better. Look at your favorite feature in the mirror for a while. Appreciate other people’s presence in your life, and always remember that you are a person who others appreciate in some way.

Building Confidence In Recovery

If you are in recovery, congratulations! You are taking positive steps for your health and safety. There may be some things you are working through that were caused by your addiction, your past, or both. Be sure to talk through these things with friends, family, or a therapist. Going to meetings and consistently checking in with people who encourage you in your recovery are also great ways to build confidence and self-esteem. You need people on your team who are willing to build you back up in a positive manner and keep you feeling safe in your sobriety.

If you are struggling with self-esteem issues, help can feel miles away. When dealing with past traumas or the shame and stigma often associated with addiction, a person’s self-esteem can feel incredibly low. If you need help with addiction, mental health, or self-esteem issues, RECO Intensive is here for you. At RECO Intensive, we understand that self-esteem issues are often chronic and confidence can be hard to find. Our professional staff and experienced alumni will help create a treatment plan that is catered specifically to your needs. We offer treatment at our facility as well as intensive outpatient care and sober living. Our many therapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy, adventure therapy, individual and family therapy, and even equine therapy. We know you have many strengths and the potential to find your confidence. Let us help you find your strengths in RECOvery. To learn more, call (561) 464-6533 today. Let’s get back to a brighter future.