Life can be tough. Whether it’s difficult consequences from our choices or unkind words and actions from someone else, low self-esteem and low self-worth are part of life for many of us. Dealing with low self-esteem is never easy, but it helps to understand why we’re feeling down, so we can make a plan to turn things around. Once you’ve had some time to explore it and think things through, it can be really helpful to reach out to someone for support. 

Through the years, I've talked to many on my radio show that told me they are feeling down, and they don't feel like they are worthy of love and acceptance. What I do know is that those times don’t last forever. There is hope. You can feel better about yourself. Here are some simple things to do when you're having a bout of low self-esteem.

1. Talking to a Loved One 

Talking to a friend or family member is a great way to get a boost of encouragement when you need it most. Let your friends and family know when you’re having a rough time. And if there’s something specific you need to feel better, let them know what your needs are. Chances are, they can help, or know someone who can. If it’s not a problem they can solve, just knowing my friends care and are there to listen can be encouraging to me.

2. Doing Your Favorite Hobby

What are you good at? What do you know a lot about? Spend time learning about and doing those things when you feel down.
Remembering your skills and talents will be a great self-esteem boost.

3.  Journaling 

Writing things down is often key to helping me get things off my chest, including when I’m feeling bad about myself. If you spend time journaling, write about how you’re feeling, and how you’d like things to change. Then try writing down what you like about yourself. If that’s too difficult, try writing about what people you care about like about you. If you wrote about what makes you feel down, be sure to come back to it, and journal about what makes you feel better.

4. Finding Motivation

There are plenty of people who are very motivational and inspirational, and their wisdom can go a long way to improving your self-worth. Look for TedTalks, motivational speakers, or books by people you admire to uplift you when you’re struggling.

5. Reconnecting with Your Faith 

Faith is hard to hold on to when you’re not feeling good about yourself. But when you’re able to be reminded how much God loves you, it can help you feel comforted and encouraged. If you don’t know where to start, spend time in silence, try saying a prayer, or look up encouraging Bible verses that raise your hopes. Remember, God loves you, and He sees you as worthy of love.

6. Talking to a Mentor

Sometimes, talking to someone who’s worked through difficult feelings and come out on the other side can help you have hope that things will get better for you, too. If you’re not sure where to start, you can get that support right now.
TheHopeLine offers no-cost online mentoring for people struggling with their self-esteem. Talk to a HopeCoach today about how you’re feeling, and what you can do to feel better sooner. We are here to listen, and we believe things will look up.

Isolation can negatively impact mental health, but there are ways to feel connected and strengthen friendships. Find out more here.