5 Simple Ways to Boost Your Self-Esteem

Even the most confident of people have days where they can be hard on themselves. Negative thoughts start to creep in, and it can be difficult to stop them in their tracks.

While it may be easier to wallow in self-pity, there are ways to get yourself out of your rut — and, surprisingly, they’re not difficult! Here are some simple ways to cheer yourself up and boost your self-esteem.

1. Make a List of Your Strengths

If you’re struggling with self-esteem, you’re likely ruminating on things you don’t like about yourself. Every time you catch yourself thinking about a quality that you deem negative, try to stop that thought in its tracks and replace it with a positive one.

Of course, this can be difficult in the moment, so pull out a notebook or your smartphone and take some time to write down your positive characteristics and traits. Think about your favorite physical trait, areas in which you excel, your personal relationships and your intelligence. Make the list as long as you can, but at least hit five. This list can be referenced whenever you’re feeling blue. It may seem silly at first, but hopefully, you’ll naturally start to replace negative thoughts with positivity.

2. Put on Your Favorite Song

There’s something about putting on a happy tune that just heightens your mood. That’s because your brain releases dopamine when you hear your favorite song. Whatever your music streaming service of choice, a simple search for “happy songs” will likely provide you with hundreds of playlists from which to choose. Give one a shot or create your own playlist to listen to on days in which you feel down. While you’re at it, get up and do a little dance!

3. Spend Some Time Exercising

Speaking of dancing, exercising is another proven way to boost your mood, and therefore your self-esteem. Exercise reduces stress, improves your physical health, and overall releases endorphins. Take it slow if you are just starting to exercise, and don’t push yourself too far or you might feel overwhelmed or injure yourself. Beyond feeling good and becoming healthier, if body image is one of your insecurities, it will feel good to work toward reaching your goal.

4. Try on Something Sexy

Have you ever heard the phrase, “The clothes make the man”? Indeed, wearing the right clothing can definitely help boost your confidence! And there’s nothing that will make you feel more confident than some sexy lingerie. Pick out some favorites according to your body type, budget and personal style to ensure you find something you enjoy. Throw it on for a special occasion, to surprise your partner, or just to enjoy for some special alone time.

5. Be Kinder to Everyone

Even if you are having trouble being kind to yourself, try to be kind to others. Besides making others happy, it may help you feel happier in the process! You’ll feel good about what you’re doing for others, which, in turn, is something you can pride yourself on. Seeing smiling faces makes you smile yourself, so get out there and do good.

Keep Your Chin Up

Self-esteem is a tricky beast to tackle. But your journey to being content with yourself can begin with just a few simple steps. Take each day at a time, and try to incorporate one or two of these tips into your daily routine, especially when you’re feeling down, to turn around your mood.