Make a list of your positive qualities, skills and achievements. Laminate the list, hang it in your room and read it daily as a way to affirm yourself. Visualize the person described on that list. During those times when your confidence is shaken, create a Faith Aid Kit. Fill a shoebox with photos of loved ones, cards, love letters, certificates of awards, report cards, job reviews and recommendations, inspirational poems and stories. Have family members write a handful of reasons why you're special and pop their notes into your kit. Pull that kit out when you need to reaffirm your faith in yourself. Take time out of your schedule to nurture your spiritual side. Go to a park or take a hike and enjoy the natural world. Soak in a bath surrounded by lit candles. Crawl into bed and read a favorite book.
Youngsters who engage in extracurricular physical activity tend to enjoy heightened levels of concentration and energy, elevated brain function, changes in musculature and increased self-esteem. As a result, they tend to do well academically. Regular exercise will help you to manage stress and improve your body image, both of which are connected to your self-esteem. Because exercise pumps up your endorphins, or neurotransmitters that produce the runner's high, it will help you to stay optimistic, focused and energetic. A brisk walk or jog daily, or simple weights that can be used at home, will provide you with enough exercise.
Find a new hobby that will teach you a new skill, such as cooking, gardening and carpentry. If you have always wanted to learn a martial art, enroll in kung fu classes. Learn how to play a musical instrument if you're so inclined. Educate and challenge yourself in different ways to buttress your self-esteem. If you do not have the funds, join an online service where you can trade your skills. The Skills Exchange Service is a website where people barter their knowledge, such as paragliding, carpentry and computer programming.
Volunteer your time to a nonprofit organization or charitable cause. By helping others, you help yourself. Not only is this activity free, but it can add considerable value to the lives of others. The appreciation that others will show you for generous acts will enhance your self-esteem. As well, such activities provide perspective. By interacting with people who are less privileged or disabled in any way, you may recognize the gifts that life has brought you.