Carole-anne talks about how you can work on building up your own self-esteem.
For some, the idea of giving care to others is very easy but they find it much, much harder to give care to themselves. This can stem from a low self-esteem. If you have low self-esteem, it can take practice to get used to thinking more positively about yourself. One way you can do this is by making a list of several things that you like about yourself.
You might include:
• things about your personality
• things about the way that you look
• things that you do
• skills you have developed
Take your time and aim for 50 different things, even if this takes several weeks. Keep this list and look at a different part of it each day. If you are feeling down or worried about an event that is coming up, such as a job interview, you can use it to remind you of all the good things about yourself. If you struggle to come up with a list of good things, you could ask your partner or a trusted friend to help you begin. This may also help you to see how others may have a higher opinion of you than you do of yourself.
Another technique is to write down at least three things that went well or that you have achieved that day before you go to sleep. Some people also find it helpful to keep objects, such as photos or letters, that make them feel good about themselves.
“I have a feel-good box, and in it I keep happy memories, positive affirmations and just little things that make me feel good.”
Building your self-esteem takes time, courage and lots of patience. Be kinder and more compassionate to yourself.
