Self-esteem is often an inside job.  We talk so much about how different things around us have the ability to affect our self-esteem, but the reality is we can be our own worst enemy.  How many times have you used your own negativity against yourself.  This is the quickest way to killing your motivation and self-worth.  You can build yourself up just as easily as you have knocked yourself down. Here are five easy steps to building your self-esteem and becoming the great person you are meant to be.

1.  The first step to building your self-esteem is to ELIMINATE NEGATIVE WORDS.

How many times have you woken up and looked at yourself in the mirror and thought something bad about yourself?  We’ve all done it at one time or another. Sometimes when you make a mistake it’s an invitation to start calling yourself ‘stupid’, an ‘idiot’ or ‘incompetent’.  That shouldn’t happen. You have to recognize when you are doing this and slowly remove those negative words and thoughts.

2. Focus on the POSITIVE THINGS ABOUT YOURSELF.

Once you remove negative thinking the next logical step is to replace it with positive thoughts and actions about you. Remind yourself how beautiful you are.  Tell yourself you’re a smart person with a bright future.  Remember all of your achievements and know that you are amazing.

3. Surround yourself with POSITIVE PEOPLE.

When you are with others who have a positive energy, good mindset and focused on doing good you will find yourself uplifted just being around them.  These are the types of people who will not only allow you to be yourself, but they will have a positive influence and also be encouraging.

4. Focus your energy on doing things YOU LOVE.

Have you ever noticed how good if feels when you’re doing something that you’re really good at?  Or when you are just having a good time doing what you love to do.  It’s one of the best ways to fuel the fire of positivity in your spirit.  As you put energy into things that uplift you, you’re less likely to have any negative thoughts overcoming you.  Because you’re having a good time doing what you love, you’ll be laughing and smiling so much more.

5. Read something POSITIVE EVERY MORNING.

One of the best ways to start your day is by reading something that will motivate you for the day.  If you get in to the daily habit of finding inspiration in something you read, you can find that to be very helpful.  Perhaps choose something that will be your mantra for the day so you can go back to that as the day progresses and life hits you with unexpected twists.  For example I like some of the scriptures from the Bible as inspiration like Jeremiah 29:11 ( For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.) It always reminds me that I have a hope and a future of prosperity.  I also love to read inspiring quotes like this one from Norman Vincent Peale “Change your thoughts and you change your world.”

Today make a decision to try one of these steps to improve your self-esteem.  Just try it.  Slowly make it a habit and you’ll find things beginning to change. As your self-esteem improves, you will feel better about yourself and notice what a wonderful experience life will be when you’re free from being your own worst enemy.