Being a teen isn’t always easy. You’re figuring out who you are, who you care about and how you fit into the world. Add in school, friendship, social media and body changes, and suddenly, it’s a lot. That’s why it’s important to build healthy self-esteem.
Self-esteem is how you see yourself and what you believe about your worth. When your self-esteem is strong, you’re more confident, kinder to yourself and more willing to try new things, even if they’re hard. But when it’s low, you may feel stuck, constantly compare yourself to others or doubt your abilities. Self-esteem is shaped by both genetics and life experience —but it can always be strengthened with practice.
Building self-esteem isn’t always easy. It takes time, effort and a little bit of intentional practice. Small changes can make a big difference!
16 ways to level up your self-esteem
Make a vision board
Do you have big dreams and goals swirling in your head? A vision board can help make these dreams visible. Grab some magazines, scissors and glue, or go digital with a Pinterest board. Fill it with pictures, quotes and words that reflect your goals and the kind of life you want. Seeing it daily can help you stay inspired and believe in what’s possible.
Identify your strengths
Write down five things you’re good at. Yes, you do have them! Maybe you’re a good listener, a creative thinker or someone who can always make others laugh. When you focus on your strengths, you can see your value more clearly.
Adopt a daily affirmation
Say something positive about yourself every morning. Easy and powerful affirmations to remember are: “I am enough,” or “I am growing every day.” It may feel a little weird at first, but daily affirmations can help shift your mindset to build a more loving inner voice.
To take it a step further, you can write your affirmation on your mirror, in your planner or post it on your wall.
Set SMART goals
SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. Setting a goal like “I want to read one book this month” is more effective than “I want to be smarter.” Small wins can build big confidence.
Transform negative self-talk
Are you constantly putting yourself down or focusing on your flaws? Challenge those negative thoughts! Ask yourself if they’re really true and try to reframe them more positively. Instead of “I’m so bad at this,” try “This is challenging, but I can learn and improve.”
Keep a journal
Journaling is a fantastic way to process your emotions, reflect on your experiences and boost self-awareness. In addition to free writing, you could try:
- Bullet journaling — A creative way to organize your thoughts, tasks and goals.
- Gratitude journaling — Writing down things you’re thankful for each day shifts your focus to the positive.
Write a letter to yourself
Write a letter to your past self filled with kindness, to your present self celebrating your accomplishments or to your future self filled with encouragement. This can help you reflect and realize how far you’ve come and how strong you really are.
Do random acts of kindness
Hold the door open for someone. Compliment someone on their outfit. Volunteer in your community. Helping others can boost your confidence and remind you that you matter, not just to yourself, but to others, too.
Try a new hobby
Stepping outside your comfort zone and trying something new can be a huge confidence booster. Whether it’s learning to play an instrument, joining a coding club, trying out a new sport or getting into photography, discovering your untapped skills and passions can help you feel more capable and well-rounded.
Get your body moving
Physical activity isn’t just good for your body, it’s amazing for your mind too. Dance in your room. Go for a walk in the sunshine. Try yoga or join a team. Moving your body helps release endorphins, which are your body’s natural mood boosters.
Embrace your uniqueness
Social media can sometimes make it hard to feel good about your body, but remember that every body is different and beautiful in its own way. Focus on what your body can do rather than just how it looks. If scrolling on social media is dragging you down, it’s OK to take a break.
Tap into music
Music has a powerful effect on our emotions. Whether you’re learning to play an instrument, creating playlists of songs that make you feel good, or just letting loose and dancing with friends, music can be a fantastic way to express yourself, boost your mood and connect with your inner self.
Address mistakes or poor choices
Everyone makes mistakes. It’s part of being human. What you do after the mistake is what matters. Reflect, make it right if needed and move forward.
Get a job
Even working a few hours a week can help you gain responsibility, independence and purpose. Bonus: earning your own money feels really empowering!
Practice being assertive
Assertiveness is about respectfully expressing your needs and opinions. It’s different from being passive or aggressive. Learning to stand up for yourself and communicate your boundaries can significantly boost your self-esteem and sense of personal power.
Think about your relationships
Surround yourself with people who support you, uplift you and make you feel good about yourself. If someone is constantly bringing you down or making you feel insecure, consider distancing yourself from them.
Building self-esteem doesn’t happen overnight, and that’s OK. It takes small, daily choices to treat yourself with kindness, courage and confidence. Whether you try one or all of these activities, know this: You are worthy, just as you are, and you’re growing every single day.
Need extra support or not sure where to start, contact us today. At Lightfully Teen, we’re here to help teens like you grow your confidence, build emotional support and shine from the inside out.