According to the KidsHealth website, self-esteem is based on how you feel about yourself. If you feel generally good about yourself, you're more likely to have positive relationships and accept your own strengths and weaknesses. It can also be easier to set goals and ask for help when you have strong self-esteem. A young person who has low self-esteem is likely to have a lack of confidence in his own abilities. Physical activity, especially through sports, is an effective way to improve shaky self-esteem. Young people involved with athletics develop a positive body image, form relationships with teammates and also reduce stress.
Step 1
Choose a sport you enjoy with a peer group you relate to. KidsHealth suggests that focusing on the positive aspects of your life can help strengthen self-esteem. Choosing an enjoyable sport in which you feel confident will help you build from your strengths. Sports can be individual, like swimming or running, or they can be team sports like basketball or soccer. You will be able to develop relationships with other athletes in almost any sport, and these relationships, along with the physical fitness that you gain from practicing a sport, can make you feel more confident with yourself and in your peer interactions.
Step 2
Set fitness and performance goals related to your training program. The National Association for Self-Esteem notes that goal-setting is a key aspect of self-esteem development. When you set an athletic goal, you challenge yourself. Reaching the goal will boost your confidence and enhance your self-image. If you fall short of your goals, it can be a valuable lesson in how to accept difficulties without feeling negative about yourself.
Step 3
Discuss your goals with an adult mentor or coach. Being able to discuss your feelings, thoughts and hopes is an important part of self-esteem. This will help you learn that you can be honest with other people and ask for their support. People with high self-esteem have a strong sense of their own self-worth and thus are more likely to speak up for themselves and their needs. Practicing this with an adult mentor will improve your communication skills and overall confidence. Asking a coach for feedback on your performance and progress is a great way to start.
Step 4
Keep a journal to track your progress and achievements. Tracking your achievements and any difficulties you encounter is an important tool to help remind you of your hard work. Recording positive moments like scoring for your team or winning a race will give you accomplishments to reflect on when you face challenges or disappointments. Record meaningful moments, such as when a peer compliments your performance or your coach asks you to demonstrate a skill for teammates.
Step 5
Share your achievements with family and friends. The National Association for Self-Esteem notes that it is important to be able to talk to others about your accomplishments. Showing friends and family members results from a game or awards for specific performance is an important part of feeling positive about yourself. This may feel strange at first because you may be worried that you'll be bragging, but expressing your pleasure and excitement about your athletic experiences is an important part of relating to others in a confident manner.
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