“Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are.”― Marilyn Monroe

It takes time to build up self-confidence. Some people go their entire life without really learning to see their own value. Loving who you are is one of the best things you can do. Here are a few ways to appreciate yourself a little more and build self-esteem…

Do what makes you feel beautiful – Everyone defines beauty differently. Look to what inspires you. Whether it’s high-fashion or low maintenance, punk rock or super chic. Stand out from the crowd by doing what you do best. You’ll feel more confident in your skin when you’re doing your own brand of beauty.

Try something you’ve never done before – You can build your self-esteem by trying new things and learning what you’re good at. You’ll be proud of yourself just for trying and doing your best. Let yourself have fun and enjoy the moment!

Release negative thoughts – Write down every bad thing you’ve ever thought about yourself or that someone has said to you; then, burn it. Have a 15-minute meditation session where you inhale to let all the tension and negativity build up; then, exhale to release it all from your body and soul. However you symbolically want to represent it, let go of the hurtful words that you’ve let define you.

Make a list of your strengths – In place of the negative, put the positive. Write it down and think about it for a half hour over a nice cup of coffee or herbal tea. This is something you deserve to spend time on. You have to see your own value so you can believe in it. Write as many things as you can. What are you good at? What do you love about yourself? What do you like to do? What character traits, intangibles, or physical abilities to you excel at? Dare to even love your body!

Look to someone in your life for inspiration – We all know someone who seems to be born with self-confidence. You can use that person as your source of inspiration! They know what they’re worth–and you should know what you’re worth, too. Take up your space in this world; don’t make apologies or excuses for yourself when it’s not necessary. Know your self-worth; just like that confidence person knows theirs. Then you too can be someone’s inspiration.

About Alex Blackwell
Alex Blackwell is a father, husband and writer. He writes about inspiring things at The BridgeMaker.
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