With a busy family life, social calendar and work schedule, a woman's self-worth may suffer if she's unable to fulfill her responsibilities with ease, according to Karen DeBord of the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Missouri Extension. Don't allow low self-esteem to negatively affect the important aspects of your life, including family and friendships, work and health. Live confidently by using techniques to build your self-esteem.
Step 1
Write affirmations in a journal to boost your self-esteem and read it whenever you need to lift your spirits, advise the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Journal ways you have supported your spouse and children, as well as your accomplishment and the ways you have been a good friend, sister and daughter.
Step 2
Prevent blows to your self-confidence by setting achievable goals and excusing yourself for mistakes. The Mayo Clinic notes that you can reduce the amount of pressure you put on yourself by not thinking in terms of "I must" or "I have to."
Step 3
Develop skills to handle difficult situations. The Department of Health and Human Services says that you'll have the self-esteem to face a variety of situations if you're able to use coping mechanisms, such as asking for help, tackling issues one step at a time or distracting yourself momentarily to get your mind off a pressing problem.
Step 4
Nurture yourself to regain your self-respect and realize that you deserve love and care, particularly if your esteem issues stem from negative treatment by a loved one or friend. The University of Texas at Austin's Counseling & Mental Health Center recommends getting enough rest and relaxation, participating in enjoyable activities and treating yourself to a present or time off when you reach a goal that makes you proud.
Step 5
Practice your positive thinking skills to increase self-confidence. The Department of Health and Human Services notes that you can remain optimistic and focus on your best qualities if you find the positive side to negative situations, remember a strength when someone criticizes a weakness and avoid comparing yourself to other women.
Tips and Warnings
- Improve your self-esteem to benefit your child's sense of self-worth if you're a mother. The Kids Health website notes that a parent's poor self-confidence and negative attitude can cause a child to struggle with the same esteem issues. Be a good role model by allowing your child to see your resiliency and optimism in a variety of circumstances.
- Seek help if your low self-worth is affecting your ability to complete daily tasks or maintain relationships. The University of Texas at Austin notes that a doctor or therapist may be able to discover deeper causes for your esteem issues and recommend counseling or a treatment plan.
Things You'll Need
- Journal
- Pen
References
- MayoClinic.com: Self-Esteem, Boost your Self-Image with These 5 Steps
- National Mental Health Information Center: Building Self-Esteem, A Self-Help Guide
- Health Resources and Services Administration: Appreciating Yourself
- University of Texas at Austin Counseling & Mental Health Center: Better Self-Esteem
- KidsHealth from Nemours: Developing Your Child's Self-Esteem
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