Self Esteem

Self esteem, is, in dictionary terms, 'a realistic respect for or favourable impression of oneself; self-respect.' So basically, the respect you have for yourself, all the time. It may seem like it changes frequently, especially during teenage years, but generally, there is an underlying self respect hiding under the surface. Whether it is high or low depends on each individual. Here is the lowdown on both high and low self esteem, and how to boost yourself up on bad days.

High self esteem is what every person, big or small, longs to have. It helps you boost yourself up when you are down, and helps you remember that no matter what happens, you are still a good person. Having high self esteem doesn’t mean you are conceited, or you adore yourself, it just means having a healthy relationship with your body and mind. And that is most definitely a good thing! Having high self esteem may seem like a hard thing to achieve, but it doesn’t have to be. Read on for great ways to improve your self esteem.
Low self esteem can be absolutely awful to deal with. Sometimes traumatic things that have happened in the past can affect your self esteem and bring it down. For example, maybe a boy or girl was picked on by a bully in primary school, and has never fully recovered from that. Incidents’ like this, that may seem small and harmless to others, can have a big affect on your self esteem. But luckily, there is a way to bring your self esteem up. See the tips below, and enjoy a happier, healthier you!

Suggestions on how to improve body image and self-esteem:

• Treat your body with respect and love.
• Relax and enjoy being you.
• Make friends with the person you see in the mirror.
• Learn to appreciate the many different sizes and shapes that human beings naturally come in.
• See that there is beauty in all bodies.
• Wear clothes you enjoy and feel comfortable in.
• Go through your wardrobe and give away everything that doesn’t fit.
• Appreciate what your body does for you — thank your legs for carrying you around and your arms for being able to hug someone.
• Find physical activities you love doing, for example, dancing, gardening, walking or sports.
• Stand tall: watch your posture.
• Prepare witty responses to negative comments from others.
• Pick something you’ve been putting off until you are ‘perfect’ and do it now!
• Make a list of stuff you’re good at.
• Give yourself three compliments a day!
• Stop yourself before you think negative things about yourself.
• Be patient. Healing your relationship with your body takes time.