How to Improve Your Self-Esteem: 4 Therapist-Approved Tips
Struggling with self-esteem can feel like walking through life with a quiet but constant voice in your head telling you that you're not enough. The good news is: self-esteem isn’t fixed, it’s something that can be strengthened, gently and intentionally.
Here are 4 practical, therapist-approved ways to start improving your self-esteem today:
1. Talk to Yourself Like You Would to a Friend
Your inner dialogue matters. If your self-talk is critical or cruel, it’s like trying to thrive in toxic soil.
Ask yourself: “Would I say this to someone I love?”
If not, it doesn’t belong in your inner world either. Start practicing kind, affirming language - even if it feels awkward at first.
2. Question the Inner Critic
When negative thoughts arise, try asking:
“Whose voice is this?”
Often, the harsh things we believe about ourselves were learned from others - caregivers, teachers, culture.
You don’t have to accept those beliefs as truth.
3. Keep Small Promises to Yourself
Confidence grows when we prove to ourselves that we’re reliable.
Start small: drink that glass of water you promised, take that 10-minute walk, go to bed on time. These tiny acts build trust with yourself - and trust is the foundation of self-esteem.
4. Surround Yourself With People Who Reflect Your Worth
You deserve to feel safe and valued in your relationships.
If you’re constantly proving or chasing love, it chips away at your sense of self.
Instead, seek out people who meet you with respect, calm, and care. Being around validating energy helps rewire your nervous system to feel more secure.
Low self-esteem often comes from things that were done to us, not something wrong with us. The beautiful part? That means it can be unlearned.
In therapy, I help clients explore where these beliefs came from - and gently build a new relationship with themselves, one based on self-respect, clarity, and care.
If you’re ready to begin this work, I have space for new clients. Feel free to reach out - I’d love to support you. You can send me an email on lauragomez.therapy@gmail.com or contact me on my phone 07594 240997.
