Lack of self-esteem is an issue that plagues countless people, regardless of age, gender, or race. It is a thinking disorder in which an individual views themselves as inadequate, unlovable, or even incompetent. Once formed, this negative self-view invades most thoughts, which continues the self-defeating behavior. The majority of victims of these intrusive thoughts are teenagers. Teenagers tend to be very worried about their appearance, and with summer coming up, insecurity about appearance is only growing. The perfect “summer body” is not always attainable, nor is it essential for a healthy body image or high self-esteem, but most people do not seem to realize that. According to dosomething.org, over 70 percent of girls age 15-17 avoid normal daily activities, even school, when feeling bad about their looks. This shows that a lack of self-esteem can lead to poor academic performance, which is a real issue. Issues, however, can be solved and there are countless methods to increase self-esteem and maintain a positive body image.
#1- Identify troubling conditions or situations. Think about whether or not there are certain situations that seem to have a negative effect on your self-esteem. Once those situations are fresh in your mind, think about why they might have that effect. Is your reasoning rational, or irrational? Most of the time they are irrational reasons as to why the situation is upsetting, and realizing you are worrying about trivial things is the first step in letting it go.
#2- Pay attention to thought patterns that erode self-esteem. For example, “all or nothing thinking,” is a way of thinking that makes the person see things as either all good, or all bad. They might think “If I fail at this task, I’m a failure.” Awareness of a mindset such as this is important, as you can then begin to challenge negative thoughts about something and think of the good. Try your best to see the good in things. Even if you fail, at least you tried. Not only this but failing something can only make you better, as it is nothing but extra practice.
#3- Take care of Yourself. Arguably the most beneficial for a healthy self-esteem would be taking care of yourself. According to https://excellenceinfitness.com/, exercise can reduce depression and negative moods, as well as alleviate low self-esteem and social withdrawal. Make an effort to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, limit sweets and junk food, do things enjoyable to you. A healthy body is a healthy mind, and a healthy mind leads to high self-esteem.
#4- Be nice to Yourself. That little voice in your head that tells you that you’re killing it, (or not), is much more powerful than you may think. Make an effort to be kind to yourself, and, in the occasion of a slip-up try to challenge any negative thoughts. A good way to practice being nice to yourself is to speak to yourself the same way you’d speak to your friends. In the event you say terrible things to your friends, try to imagine speaking to your mom or grandma.
#5- Nobody’s perfect. It’s important to always strive to be the best version of yourself, but also you must accept that nobody is perfect. There is no reason to be judgmental and hard on yourself. Perfecting yourself is an unattainable goal, so try not to let small failures and such upset you.
While these tips have indeed proved useful for many, there is no simple or quick fix for low self-esteem. Though there is no easy or quick fix for a lack of self-esteem, that does not mean all hope should be lost. Different things work for different people; everyone is unique. One method may be beneficial to you, and totally useless to someone else. With that said, it’s important not to get discouraged when there is a lack of results from certain methods. Instead of feeling discouraged and hopeless, simply try one of the various other methods to increase self-esteem. Trust the process and increase your self-esteem.