Self-Esteem Building 101

Today, I am writing to give you a few tips on how to improve  self-esteem. If you follow these suggestions you will see a positive change. These are time-proven exercises and they will work. Just think, a type of in-home free therapy. Sounds like a win-win to me.

Self-Esteem Building Exercises

1. Create a Compliments Journal

Do you realize that many people are very uncomfortable receiving compliments and often deflect as if they are not worthy of it. Example, someone compliments your dress, and you say, "Oh, this old thing." or Someone says, you are beautiful, and you drop your eyes and blush. Is that you, or, do you know how to smile graciously and say, "Thank you," If the later is not you, you definitely will benefit from a compliments journal. A compliment journal allows you an opportunity to give yourself compliments on a positive feature or ability. This prepares you to accept genuine compliments from others more readily. 

Let's begin, first, you will need a journal or a notebook, a pen or a pencil. Learn to start your day off right by thinking of three things about yourself that can be complimented. I suggest that you come up with at least two compliments beyond your physical appearance. For example, you might say, I am an incredibly gifted writer, or I am an intelligent person. Just find three things, anything that you appreciate about yourself. What kinds of things do you do that make you or others feel good? If I were to write in a journal, I might say, Jacqueline, you are an excellent encourager. Or, Jacqueline, you are a fantastic baker, people certainly enjoy your desserts or Jacqueline, you really are good at putting people at ease. And on a good hair day, I could say, Jacqueline, your hair is looking good today. Whatever you come up with, the goal is to focus on the positive. When you look for them, you will find them.

I get it, you are probably thinking you may feel silly. You might at first but keep doing it. Take the time to write down the compliments, you can even read them aloud in front of the mirror. And yes, congratulate yourself. Why not? If you cannot celebrate yourself, who will? Then go about your day. This simple activity will promote self-love and self-respect of oneself. In other words, it is creating a positive new image of your own self-worth. Be consistent and do it for 30 days. Expect to see a change. When you appreciate and love yourself, you can genuinely love others.

2. Pay Attention to Your Needs

Do you believe that we are a spirit beings housed in a Body, with a Soul and a Mind? Do you know how important it is to learn how to live a happy life and to learn to take care of all three of them. Your body is a great communicator. It w will let you know when it's exhausted, out of shape, or malnourished. When it lets you know, do something. Maybe your soul wants to reconnect or clear the air for closure with an old friend, sibling, or even a co-worker. A relationship ended badly. Perhaps, your soul desires you to be at peace with that person so you can move on freely. No soul ties. What about your Mind? Maybe your mind is full of clutter, thoughts, and ideas that are not beneficial to your growth. Do you need to declutter? What is it that fills your thoughts, keeping you from being able to plan your day, or is hindering you from meditating. What clutter is holding you back. 

We are beginning a new decade. Commit to being the best you can be. Be confident, be authentic and be YOU!