When people have low self esteem, they do what they consider to be "safe," and they are afraid of change. After you build your self esteem to a higher level, you feel better about yourself and be able to make positive changes in your life. For instance, you might find better friends or learn something new at work. I will discuss some simple ways for you to build your self esteem.

One way to do that is to find something slightly difficult to do and force yourself to do that project. A difficult project could be something you have never tried before. For example, maybe you want to try doing flower arranging or learn how to play a new game. In that case, don't expect to be highly skilled in one day. Another difficult project would be something a little more complicated than the work you normally do during the day.

Another way to build your self esteem is to make a list of your positive traits. When you focus on your strengths rather than your weaknesses, you will feel better about yourself. You might write down simple things such as "I am nice to other people." On the other hand, if you are highly skilled in something, you can write that down also. I suggest you make a list of at least eight positive characteristics about you. Sometimes people have a difficult time with this because they start thinking about what's wrong with them more easily than their positive traits. If you have a difficult time doing that, write both good and bad things about yourself. The list of positive traits may take a little time if you do that (one to two hours).

Set reasonable, yet challenging goals. For example, you might type 45 words per minute now. If you set a goal saying you will type 75 words per minute by next Friday, it may be unrealistic and you are setting yourself up for failure. A more realistic goal is to type 55 words per minute by next Friday.

Spend time with people who will encourage you to reach your goals. Look for people who are positive thinkers and compliment them when you talk with them. For example, you might compliment them on how well they do certain tasks at work or good decision they made related to work or school. They are more likely to talk with you and encourage you after you praise them.

You can follow these suggestions to build your self esteem. You can do something new or slightly difficult, list good things about yourself, achieve reasonably difficult goals, and spend time with people who will provide encouragement as you work toward your goals. You will feel better about yourself when you use the ideas in the article.