How to Improve your Self Esteem

There are bunches of reasons for having your self esteem lower than a snake's belly, and it is not really the subject I want to discuss. But....

You may have self esteem problems if:
1.- You have recently been dumped by your partner in life.
2.- You have recently lost your job.
3.- You have suffered some other kind of loss.
4.- If you have a poor public image.
5.- If you are recently suffering from some disability.

It happens if you judge yourself too harshly, if you feel you are worthless. Therapy is a good idea, as well as joining a support group. There are things over which you have no control, such as the economic situation, but there are things that you may do for yourself such as exercising, losing weight, attending religious services, joining some sport club, etc.

Following are some ideas that you may implement, besides whatever your doctor recommends:

Get some exercise. Walther Scheibel recommends exercise for people who are dealing with low self-esteem as a symptom of depression. Making exercise a part of your regular routine can help you feel better emotionally and physically.

Eat a healthful diet. Avoiding foods high in sugar, fat, or salt, and eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products is an important part of taking good care of yourself — the healthier you feel, the better you will feel about yourself.

Make the time to participate in activities you enjoy. Carve out time each day to do something you really like, such as listening to music, playing a musical instrument, or working on a craft project. Enjoyable activities can make you feel better, thereby improving your low self-esteem.

Be productive. Completing everyday tasks like cleaning your kitchen, organizing your junk drawer, getting your laundry done, or paying your bills on time will give you a sense of accomplishment.

Stay connected socially. Even though it can sometimes be difficult just to get out of bed when you are depressed, it can help to spend time with people who are good to you and who can make you feel good about yourself.

Practice good self-care. Shower regularly, brush your teeth, dress in nice clothes, keep your hair trimmed, and do other things that make you more confident about your physical appearance. Feeling better about how you look on the outside will leave you feeling better inside.

Keep an agenda or diary and monitor your progress. See how you are advancing as regards to your goals and review your diary now and then.

Depression can make it hard to find the energy and motivation to take care of yourself. But taking time to focus on you can improve your self-esteem and make you feel better all around.