Self-esteem is our estimate of our worth as a person. It encompasses decisions we have made about who we are and the beliefs that we hold about ourselves. If you were to finish the sentence, I am . . . several times, you may get a peek into the state of your self-esteem. Whether you see yourself in a positive or negative light affects every decision that you make. It affects the way you treat yourself and the way you allow others to treat you.

It is important to recognize, that since your self-esteem has a lot to do with decisions you have made about yourself, that you have the power to boost your self-esteem. If you think that your self-esteem is lacking, then you have the opportunity to do something about it.

There are certain practices that you can choose to help you strengthen your self-esteem:

1.Self-acceptance
Self-acceptance means loving yourself unconditionally. It does not mean that you do not want to improve, it just means that you accept that this is who you are in this moment. It means that you stop berating and belittling yourself.

2.Accept 100% Responsibility
This is very empowering. Letting go of excuses and blame means that you are in control of your life. When you accept 100% responsibility for the state of your life and the state of your self-esteem you free yourself from waiting for anyone else to change so that your life can improve.

3.Stand Up For Yourself
If you do not respect and value yourself, other never will. Find your voice and learn to be assertive rather than passive, aggressive or passive aggressive. As you learn to say yes to what you want and need and no to what you do not need or want your opinion of yourself will increase.

4.Turn Off The Auto-Pilot
Become aware of your thoughts, feelings and actions. Decide to be proactive and to more consciously choose those thoughts, feelings and actions. Accept that your wants and needs are as important as those of others.

5.Set Goals
Having a sense of purpose and direction boosts self-esteem. Find something that excites and interests you. Set your sights on improving yourself and your situation and more importantly set your sights on helping others.

6.Guard Your Integrity

Say what you mean and mean what you say. Be honest with yourself and with those around you. When you go against what you value in order to please others, you hurt your opinion of yourself.

Nathaniel Brandon said, “Since self-esteem is a consequence, a product of internal generated practices, we cannot work on self-esteem directly, neither our own nor anyone else’s. We must address ourselves to the source . . . create a climate that supports and reinforces the practices that strengthen self-esteem.”