5 Ways To Boost Your Self-Esteem Today

5 Ways to Boost Your Self-Esteem Today

Raising Kids/Growing Parents Community

Hello again everyone,

Over the past two weeks we’ve seen that healthy self-esteem makes you a stronger person. Today let’s look at practical steps you can take right now to build your self-esteem. Even small actions compound over time. Here are a few powerful practices you can start using immediately

1. Keep Promises to Yourself: Self-esteem grows from trust. If you say you’ll do something (even a small goal like going for a walk or finishing a task), follow through. Each kept promise builds internal trust in your own word. Start small: “I will journal for 10 minutes today.” When you do it, you’ll feel capable. Over time, this habit reinforces that you can rely on yourself.

2. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: Adulting and parenting are hard, and none of us have it all figured out. Instead of judging yourself by an unreachable standard, celebrate improvements. Completed a project? Learned a new skill? Recognize successes. Say to yourself, “I got better today.” This mindset shift – valuing growth – is key. (Tip: Write down one thing you did better this week.)

3. Set and Achieve Small Goals: Success builds confidence. Pick one area (health, career, relationship) and set a tiny, achievable goal. Maybe it’s organizing a drawer, planning a budget, or apologizing when you’re wrong. When you meet that goal celebrate your success. Over time, these small wins accumulate into real self-respect.

4. Handle Mistakes Constructively: If you slip up or fail, don’t let it define you. Treat mistakes as feedback, not failures. Ask, “What can I learn?” Apologize if needed, then reset and try again. When you show yourself compassion, you teach yourself resilience. Children learn this attitude too – remember, they learn by example.

5. Surround Yourself with Encouragement: Notice who you spend time with. Choose friends and mentors who uplift you, not those who constantly criticize or drain your energy. Influencers (live and via social media) can drain or reinforce your sense of value. Additionally, consume content (books, podcasts, social media, etc.) that inspire growth and confidence.

Our Building Self-Esteem training module includes a Self-Esteem Building Checklist of 16 simple things you can do to boost your sense of self. The actions fall into three categories:

• Prioritize Physical Well-being: Boost energy and confidence through 7-8 hours of sleep, exercise, form healthy habits, etc.

• Cultivate a Positive Environment: Create a clean, attractive living space, practice positive “I can” personal mantra, etc.

• Connect and Protect: Perform charitable deeds for others, avoid people who trigger negative feelings, etc.

These are all skills you can improve with practice. As you develop them, you’ll notice a natural shift. You will feel more secure in making decisions and guiding your family. Why not commit to taking one step today.

Assignment

I have two assignments for you.

1. This is a good time to listen to this month's podcast again. The Raising Kids / Growing Parents Podcast “The Key Role Self-Esteem Plays in Parenting” (Season 01, Episode 02) is still available by clicking the podcast picture below.

2. Would you like to know your adulting and parenting strengths and areas for development? Stop by our:

AP Academy Store and pick up your complimentary copy of our Adulting & Parenting Training Needs Assessment instrument. It will pinpoint the exact areas you need to focus on to prepare yourself for the next phase of your life.

We are pleased you have joined us for this month-long discussion of this important adulting/parenting issue.

Let’s Grow Together!

Bill Shackelford, Founder
AP Academy and
Raising Kids / Growing Parents Community