10 tips to build a healthy and strong self-esteem
Self-esteem is the foundation of self-confidence and the key to success in both personal and professional spheres.
For women balancing career, family, friendships, and personal ambition, nurturing authentic self-esteem can be an endless challenge. But it's worth it.
Building a strong sense of self-worth is essential for personal growth, happiness, and fulfillment. Whether you're trying to lead a team, set boundaries, or pursue your personal dreams, healthy self-esteem empowers you to live authentically and purposefully.
I've put together 10 tips to help you build strong and healthy self-esteem - both in business and in your personal life...
1. Become aware of your strengths
We often focus on what we lack instead of what we're great at. Building self-esteem starts with acknowledging your strengths - your talents, skills and unique qualities that make you , you. Write them down. Keep a journal to record your big and small accomplishments.
Example from life: My friend Silvia was feeling insecure about her leadership abilities. After we mapped out her accomplishments - such as leading a team through a large project - she realized she was much more capable than she gave herself credit for. Realizing her past successes gave her the confidence to take on even greater leadership roles.
2. Set boundaries and say no
High self-esteem comes from knowing and respecting your own boundaries. Saying "yes" to everything weakens your energy and makes you feel powerless. Learn to say "no" to things that don't align with your goals or drain your energy.
Example from life: Mary, a marketing director, felt overwhelmed by taking on too many projects. Once she started respectfully saying "no" to tasks that didn't align with her priorities, she had more time for meaningful work and her own personal growth. Her self-esteem improved because she was not too distracted.
3. Practice self-compassion
No one is perfect, and striving for perfection only sabotages self-esteem. Be kind to yourself, especially when you make mistakes. Self-compassion means forgiving yourself, learning from the experience, and moving on with grace.
Tip: The next time you are faced with a setback, ask yourself: "What would I say to a friend in this situation?" Now say the same kind words to yourself.
4. Surround yourself with positive influences
Who you surround yourself with can affect your self-esteem. Spend time with people who uplift you, support your goals, and are a healthy challenge. Break off relationships or set boundaries with those who drain your energy or make you feel small.
Example from life: Julie, a successful entrepreneur, realized that her self-esteem was taking a hit every time she spent time with a friend who constantly criticized her business ideas. She decided to spend less time with this friend and instead joined a local group of women entrepreneurs who inspired her and boosted her self-esteem.
5. Set achievable goals
Setting and achieving goals - no matter how small - can boost your confidence and self-esteem. Start with small, realistic goals and then celebrate each success. Success breeds success.
Tip: If your big goal is to start your own business, break it down into smaller steps. Start by researching your industry and then develop a business plan. Each small victory will give you the confidence to take the next step.
6. Practice gratitude
Gratitude is powerful. It shifts your focus from what you lack to what is already present. By practicing gratitude daily, you will begin to realize how much you have to offer the world, which will boost your self-esteem.
Real-life example: Victoria, a corporate lawyer, writes down three things she is grateful for each morning. This simple habit has helped her shift her mindset from one of constant stress and self-doubt to one of gratitude and positivity, allowing her to take on challenges with greater confidence.
7. Embrace authenticity
True self-confidence comes from being authentic - being yourself in all areas of your life. Instead of trying to conform to the expectations of others, embrace what makes you unique, even if it seems vulnerable at first. Authenticity is powerful and attractive.
Example from life: Anna, a senior executive, always felt the need to look "tough" at work, which made her feel disconnected. When she began to lead her team with honesty and show vulnerability when needed, she not only felt more confident but also engendered deeper loyalty and respect from her team.
8. Take care of your physical and mental health
Self-esteem is closely related to how you feel physically and mentally. Exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and eat well to energize your body and mind. Practicing mindfulness or meditation will help you reduce stress and give you clarity, which boosts self-esteem.
Tip: Find physical activities that you really enjoy, whether it's yoga, running or hiking. Moving your body can give you the confidence and a clear head to tackle everyday challenges.
9. Learn to accept compliments
Many women have trouble accepting compliments. However, by downplaying or rejecting compliments, you are reinforcing your lack of self-esteem. When someone offers you a compliment, graciously accept it - without adding self-deprecating remarks.
Tip: When someone says, "Great job on that presentation," respond simply, "Thank you, I really worked hard on it." It may seem awkward at first, but accepting compliments without belittling them helps boost positive self-esteem.
10. Celebrate progress, not perfection
Finally, remember that self-esteem is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and avoid the trap of perfectionism. By recognizing your growth over time, you will build resilience and self-esteem.
Example from life: Theresa, a product manager, was constantly comparing herself to others in her industry. When she shifted her focus to her personal progress and realized how far she had come in her career, she found a new level of satisfaction and confidence.
Building strong self-esteem takes time, but by recognizing your strengths, setting boundaries, being compassionate with yourself, and focusing on progress instead of perfection, you can cultivate a deep and lasting sense of self-worth.
Remember, self-worth is not about being perfect; it's about embracing your authentic self, going after your goals, and living with confidence and joy. Whether in business or in your personal life, you deserve to shine.
Embrace your journey. Celebrate your progress. And above all, believe in yourself - you can do it!
Do you exude confidence or do you sometimes find yourself feeling less than confident in your crampons? What do you consider to be healthy self-confidence?
Post your stories in the comments...
