Self-esteem is incredibly important. When we have it, it imbues us with happiness, confidence, and self-belief. We feel as though there’s nothing that we can’t do and no challenge we can’t overcome. Yet, when it’s lacking, it can change the way we see ourselves and how others see us. It can change the way in which we behave in certain circles and can even cost you your job. No matter who you are, where you are and what you do, self-esteem matters. And no matter what your job, income, qualifications, achievements, size or shape, you have a lot to be proud of.
The trouble is that the world seems like it’s always trying to take our self-esteem away from us. We’re all striving to achieve a perfect ideal and conform to the version of ourselves that advertising and social media have convinced us should exist. The trouble is that we inevitably find ourselves throwing money at the problem rather than seriously addressing the issues which are crippling our self-esteem.
Is it my body?
We all have our body issues. And they shouldn’t be dismissed or denigrated. But we need to break the cycle of self-shaming and self-loathing that so many of us seem trapped in.
In a perfect world, there would be a single, easy-to-achieve solution to rid us of our body hang-ups. However, the solution is as individual as you are. There are some of us whose self-esteem can only be remedied by getting breast implants, lip fillers or botox. And as long as you’ve made an educated and informed decision to do so after consulting with an expert that’s absolutely fine. Others will find that their body issues slowly erode when they take better care of themselves through their dietary and lifestyle choices. And then there are some for whom it’s a simple case of learning to love and accept their bodies.
No matter what else you do, this last step is the most vitally important.
Do clothes maketh the woman?
Lasting change comes from within, but it’s a simple truth that making changes on the outside can also help bring out a change within. Too many of us fork out a fortune on designer clothing because we assume that the name on the label will lend us self-esteem by association.
However, while we can gain confidence from our clothes, it’s more a matter of finding things that complement our shape and help us to feel comfortable and confident. We should make clothing choices (the same goes for hair, makeup, shoes, etc.) that bring out what’s within rather than masking it.
Find what makes you formidable
As I stated before, no matter who you are or what you do, you have something to be proud of. The trouble comes when we’re encouraged by the world around us to believe that we’re never quite good enough.
Maybe it’s time to find what makes you formidable again. Re-engage with creative endeavours you haven’t tried since you were a teenager. Paint. Join a dance class. Get involved with your local amateur dramatics society. Do whatever you can to do the things that bring you joy and self-belief.
Self-esteem comes from within. But that doesn’t mean that we can’t make changes on the outside that gradually help us to re-engage with the beauty and strength within.
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