Sometimes it can be hard to accept what you see in the mirror. All you can do is concentrate on all the things you believe are wrong about yourself to the point that you miss out on everything that’s so perfectly right. Fortunately, there are a lot of things you can do to increase your self-esteem. It might take a while, but doing these things will really boost your self-image if you continue to do them daily.
- Cover the Mirror. If your reflection is hard for you to look at, cover up the mirror. You can fold the mirrors if they’re on a medicine cabinet, or you could take a sheet and cover them up. Out of sight, out of mind. Alternatively, you could write some motivational quotes on the mirror with a dry erase marker. It’s an easy way to boost your self-esteem in the long term.
- Go for a Walk Around the Block. Studies show that exercise can increase people’s self-esteem, and plus, it’s super healthy for you. You don’t have to run a marathon on your first day— start with a quick spin around the block. Going outside will help you feel refreshed, and it also helps pull you out of your own thoughts. You might even pass some cute dogs on the way.
- Smile at Strangers. When a stranger smiles and says hello, our brains get a boost of confidence because we like being acknowledged. Humans aren’t meant to be invisible. (And yes, this counts for introverts too!) While you’re walking around the block, smile and nod at everyone you pass by. Chances are, they’ll smile back at you. Boom – instant confidence boost.
- Check Your Posture. Scientifically speaking, people with good posture are more likely to feel good about themselves. Nobody looks good when they slouch. Plus, it’s healthier for your back if you sit up straight. Keep your shoulders back, your spine straight, and your chin up, and you’ll look and feel more confident.
- Do a Social Media Spring Cleaning. When was the last time you unfollowed someone on Instagram? We all know somebody who keeps posting beach selfies, the ones that always make you feel a little self-conscious. Take five minutes and clean out your social media. Mute some accounts, unfollow some people, and privatize any old posts that have outlived their welcome. Then, go to your phone settings and silence notifications for your social media apps. Your mental health will thank you.
- Practice Positive Thinking. No matter what happens in the world around you, there’s always something to be grateful for. Positive thinking isn’t just ignoring the problems. It’s framing those problems in a different mindset. It might take some time, but you can learn how to practice positive thinking. Focus on the good things that happen each day, and if something goes wrong, say, “Oh well, it’s not going to ruin my day.” Remember, positivity is a choice, so once you start thinking of every day as your best day, soon enough it will start to come true.
- Clean Out Your Closet. If you’re hanging onto a bunch of old clothes that you don’t wear anymore, why keep them? They’ll clutter up your closet, and keep you from starting a fresh wardrobe. So take an hour or two to dig through your closet and take out all the clothes you don’t wear anymore. You can donate them to your local thrift store, or resell them. This is a great way to get a head start on spring cleaning. Plus, it gives you a reason to be productive, which helps change the way you think about yourself.
- Compliment the Details. When you see yourself in pictures, try not to focus on your stomach or thighs or other bodily features. Instead, focus on the tiny details. Maybe your hair looks really smooth in that picture or your eyes are sparkling. You might have to start very small (like “my left eyebrow looks alright”), but over time, you’ll get better at complimenting yourself. Practice makes perfect!
- Set Hobby-Related Goals. Goal-setting can be tricky when you struggle with your self-image. So instead of focusing your goals on your target weight or your outward appearance, try setting goals around your hobbies. Learn how to watercolor, or crochet a pair of gloves, or write a novel. Instead of setting goals for things you want to change, focus on things you want to learn.
- Seek Counseling if You Need It. Strong women go to therapy. If you’re still struggling to love yourself, reach out to a counselor or therapist in your area. You can even connect with a therapist online through a program like 7 Cups. It’s perfectly normal to see a counselor, and it can help you build your self-confidence and feel good in your own skin. So be proud of yourself— you’re making huge steps towards a healthier mindset!
