{*Did you know you can write on Elephant? Here’s how—big changes: How to Write & Make Money or at least Be of Benefit on Elephant. ~ Waylon}

Why is it so hard to feel good about myself?

I’ve thought about this question many times over the years.

The struggle to love myself as I am is real. I tend to focus on my weaknesses rather than strengths. I notice my flaws but rarely celebrate my good traits. When I succeed, I think I can do better, and if I fail, I hardly get over it.

We’ve all been there. We all know how it feels to be stuck in an endless loop of self-doubt. It may have started at home where we haven’t experienced unconditional love and trust. Maybe the relationships we’ve entered have tarnished our self-confidence.

Sometimes I think it doesn’t matter where it starts; what matters is how and where it ends.

The path to self-esteem is rocky and unpredictable, and I choose it nonetheless. However, changing how we feel about ourselves doesn’t come easy for many of us.

In order to improve our self-worth, we need to create good habits and take actions that can help us to evaluate ourselves positively. Our self-image may still fluctuate several times a day, but it’s okay. We should stay committed to improving our lives and relationships.

Here are four actions that impact how we view and care for ourselves:

1. Connect with people in your community. Although we may be too busy with work and responsibilities, we can’t deny that staying connected with loved ones lowers our anxiety and stress. Community makes us feel loved and cared for, which can help regulate our emotions and see ourselves better. Alone time is necessary for growth, but we need to know when it becomes risky. Those who don’t know how to be happily alone may struggle with negative thoughts and self-worth issues.

2. Do something you love every day. We always underestimate the importance of doing something that sparks up the light within us. Regardless of how overwhelmed we are, we can dedicate at least five minutes every day to a hobby or an activity that we love. Focusing on cooking, gardening, reading, exercising, or painting can make us feel good about ourselves and help us to trust our strengths.

3. Go out. Leave the house; I’m serious. Go for a walk in your town or city, get some fresh air solo or with friends, or simply get a Vitamin D boost. I can’t stress enough the importance of going outside. It gives us a new perspective and lessens our anxious and turbulent thoughts. Believe it or not, our self-worth is tied to our performances and movements. The more we move and change scenery, the more we may trust ourselves.

4. Practice gratitude. I know deep inside we may be thankful for the basics (like health and home), but are we aware that we live in a world filled with diseases, homelessness, and sad endings? Those who have a low self-esteem may forget all about the positive things around them. It’s a wonderful feeling to be reminded that life is a blessing—that’s why we shouldn’t take it for granted. Practice gratitude because it will spike your self-worth with positivity.

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