Hey, curvy besties! We all know that building confidence and self-esteem is a journey, and it’s one worth taking. For instance, I constantly write about how I didn’t always view myself as this “baddie with a belly” or have the highest confidence. For me, one of the biggest tips for building confidence and self-esteem came from surrounding myself with badasses like my best friend Imari or my late pageant mother, Brandi Mallory.
You’re Amazing, Unique, And Powerful
In this fickle world, confidence and self-esteem are your secret weapons. Society can be harsh, always pushing unrealistic beauty standards and making us question our worth. According to this study by the National Bureau of Economic Research, nearly 80% of women grapple with low self-esteem and often hesitate to advocate for themselves in the workplace.
But here’s the truth: You’re amazing, unique, powerful, and so much more, just as you are.
Confidence and self-esteem give you the strength to brush off negativity, stand up for yourself, and chase your dreams without fear. They help you show up as your authentic self, unbothered by the naysayers. When you have high self-esteem, you recognize your value and capabilities.
Confidence, on the other hand, is all about trusting yourself and your abilities. Together, they form a powerhouse that helps you navigate life with a positive outlook. Plus, when you feel good about yourself, that energy radiates outward, attracting positivity and opportunities.
This journey is long and can be hard sometimes, and that’s OK. We have seven tips for building confidence and self-esteem.
7 Tips For Building Confidence And Self-Esteem
1. Celebrate Your Uniqueness
Embrace what makes you, *you*. Those quirks and traits that set you apart are your superpowers. Instead of comparing yourself to others, celebrate your individuality. Wear what makes you feel fabulous, express yourself, and let your personality shine. The world needs your special brand of magic.
2. Practice Self-Care
Self-care isn’t just about spa days and shopping sprees (though those are great, too). It’s about taking time for yourself, setting boundaries, and doing things that make you happy. Whether it’s a hobby, journaling, a workout, or just some quiet time, self-care boosts your mood and helps you recharge. When you feel good, your confidence naturally grows.
3. Surround Yourself with Positivity
Your tribe matters. Remember those badasses I spoke about earlier? Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Positive influences can boost your self-esteem and remind you of your worth. Focus on those meaningful connections with those who see your value.
4. Set Achievable Goals
Start small and build from there. Setting and achieving goals, no matter how tiny, can give you a sense of accomplishment and boost your confidence. No matter how minor, each success reminds you that you’re capable and strong. Keep pushing yourself, and watch your confidence soar.
5. Challenge Negative Thoughts
We all have that inner critic, but it’s time to put it on mute. When negative thoughts creep in, challenge them. Replace them with positive affirmations and reminders of your strengths. Over time, this practice can rewire your brain to focus on the good, boosting your self-esteem.
6. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Growth happens when you push your boundaries. Try new things, even if they scare you a little. Each time you step out of your comfort zone, you prove to yourself that you’re capable of more than you thought. This builds your confidence and opens up new possibilities.
7. Practice Gratitude
Take a moment each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Focusing on the positives in your life can shift your mindset and boost your self-esteem. Gratitude helps you appreciate your journey and recognize your accomplishments, no matter how small.
These seven tips for building confidence and self-esteem are a great start to your continuous journey. You’re well on your way. Remember, you are powerful, beautiful, and worthy of all life’s good things. So go ahead, I dare you to love yourself more and watch your confidence and self-esteem soar.
The author’s content and opinions have not been pre-reviewed, approved or endorsed by Discover.