Guest Blogger: 12 Simple Steps to Build Self-Esteem

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A twelve-step program for self-esteem?

No, but everyone can get down on themselves at sometime in their life. In this fast-paced, technologically exploding, social network connecting world, do you ever take time to work on yourself? Here are some simple things you can do to reverse the negative and to think positively about yourself.

1.  Replace Negative thoughts with Positive Constructive Thoughts. Self-talk: “Where there is a will, there is a way. I can do this. I can handle this situation. I can reach this goal.” Think Thomas the Tank: “I think I can. I know I can.” Reach for the stars – you can do it.
2. Forgive Yourself: Everyone makes mistakes. Tell yourself, “I made a mistake, but that doesn’t make me a bad person.” Ask for forgiveness to help in healing.
3. Encourage Yourself. Give yourself credit for all the wonderful self-sacrificing things that you do for others, for all the things you have learned, for your skills and accomplishments. Nurture a hobby or go back to school. Change something in your life if you need to. Ask for help and let others help you.
4. Treat Yourself with Kindness. Take time to pamper yourself and to exercise. You’ll feel better, look better, and have more energy.
5. Stop Multi-Tasking and concentrate on finishing what you start. Focus, focus, focus.
6. Avoid “Should” and “Must” Statements. You are putting too many demands upon yourself. Be realistic. It is all right to say no to over-commitments. You can’t do it all. You need and deserve some time for yourself.
7. Reflect Inward: Turn off the TV, put away the phone, step away from the computer and read a good book, listen to uplifting music, take a walk and enjoy nature, or just rest. Repeat this mantra: “I am a good person. I am worth it.”
8. Have a Good Appearance: Dress modestly, be clean, eat healthy foods, have good posture, make eye contact.
9. Be Grateful: Instead of focusing on what you want, think about what you have – every day. Keep a gratitude journal or write down positive things that happen to you or that you witness happening to others around you. Perform secret acts of service – even for strangers.
10. Compliment Others and Accept Compliments. Praise others and stop gossiping. Look for the good in people and they’ll see the good in you. Speak out to others letting them know they are important to you and they will respond and reciprocate. Tell others you love them and give them a hug.
11. Do Acts of Service. Take your mind off your own problems and help someone who needs a friend, a meal, a note of appreciation. As you contribute to another’s happiness, you will be rewarded with gratitude and personal success.
12. Be Hopeful: Focus on your spiritual being. Every day read from the scriptures. Pray and ask for help and guidance. Prayer heals and works.

YOU ARE WORTH IT.

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

GOD LOVES YOU.

You can visit Susan’s blog at Kindergarten & Preschool for Parents & Children. You may be interested in her post: 7 Ways to Improve Your Child’s Self-Esteem or her book Kindergarten: Tattle-Tales, Tools, Tactics, Triumphs and Tasty Treats for Teachers and Parents. Soon to be released: The Happy Mommy Handbook.