I don’t know about you but I’ve had moments when my self-worth has taken a hit, whether it's been because of a tough day at work, a critical comment from someone, or just the everyday pressures of life.
But I’ve learnt that building and maintaining my self-worth is something I can actively work on. So, I thought that I would share some strategies to help you boost your self-worth and keep that confidence soaring high.
1. Practice Self-Compassion
We’re often our own worst critics. When you catch yourself being self-critical, pause and think: would you say the same things to a friend in your situation? Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you’d offer to others. This means acknowledging your mistakes without harsh judgment and recognising that everyone has flaws and makes errors.
Try this: Next time you feel down on yourself, write a compassionate letter to yourself as if you were one of your favourite friends.
2. Celebrate Small Wins
We tend to focus on our bigger goals and regularly overlook the small wins we achieve. Celebrating the small wins can help to reinforce a sense of accomplishment and progress, boosting your self-worth.
Try this: Keep a daily journal where you note down three things you did well or are proud of each day, no matter how small.
3. Set Boundaries
Learning to say no and setting healthy boundaries is crucial for maintaining your self-worth. When you respect your own limits and communicate them to others, you send a message to yourself and others that your needs are important.
Try this: Identify one area in your life where you feel your boundaries are often crossed. Plan and practice how you can assertively communicate your boundaries in this area.
4. Surround Yourself with Positivity
The people we spend time with can greatly influence our self-perception. Surround yourself with supportive, positive people who uplift and encourage you. Avoid those who bring you down or make you feel less than.
Try this: Make a list of people in your life who make you feel good about yourself. Plan to spend more time with them and less with those who don’t.
5. Engage in Self-Care
Taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health is fundamental to boosting your self-worth. Self-care can be anything from getting enough sleep, eating nourishing foods, to engaging in activities that bring you joy.
Try this: Dedicate at least 30 minutes a day to a self-care activity that you enjoy and that relaxes you.
6. Challenge Negative Thoughts
Negative thoughts can be detrimental to your self-worth. When you notice these thoughts creeping in, challenge them by questioning their validity and source.
Try this: When a negative thought pops up, ask yourself: Is this thought based on facts or is it my opinion? What evidence do I have that contradicts this thought? What would be a more balanced and positive way to think about this situation?
7. Practice Gratitude
Gratitude can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering a sense of abundance and positivity. This practice can improve your overall outlook on life and, in turn, your self-worth.
Try this: Each night before bed, write down three things you are grateful for. The trick is to reflect on why you appreciate these things and how they positively impact your life.
8. Set Realistic Goals
Setting and achieving goals boosts your self-esteem and provides a sense of purpose. However, it's important to set realistic and achievable goals to avoid feeling frustrated and ultimately like a failure.
Try this: Break down a larger goal into smaller, manageable steps and set a timeline for each step. Celebrate your progress along the way.
Final Thoughts
Boosting your self-worth is a continuous journey, not a destination. But if you try to bring some of these strategies into your daily routine, you can gradually build a stronger, more positive sense of self.
Remember, it's about progress, not perfection. Be patient with yourself, and take one step at a time.
If you want to know more about how counselling can help you, you can contact me HERE
Until next time, stay kind to yourself!
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