There are moments when we all feel unsure of ourselves or not as confident as we’d like.
That’s perfectly normal.
However, if low self-esteem sticks around for a long time, it can really take a toll on our mental health and affect how we go about our daily lives.
When our self-esteem is in good shape, we generally have a positive outlook on ourselves and life as a whole.
This positive perspective helps us manage challenges and cope with the highs and lows that life brings.
On the other hand, low selfesteem can lead us to view ourselves and our lives in a more negative and critical way.
It can also make us feel less prepared or confident to handle the difficulties we encounter.
We’ve put together a short list of tips to help keep your confidence high
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Remind yourself of what you’re good at
Everyone has their own special talents—whether it’s playing sports, arts and crafts, gardening, or even making people laugh. Doing what you’re good at not only feels rewarding but can also give your mood a boost. You could even turn it into a business!
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Be kind to yourself
Being kind to yourself means cutting yourself some slack, especially when you’re tempted to be overly self-critical. Think about what you’d say to a friend in the same situation—chances are, you’d be much more understanding and supportive to them than you are to yourself.
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Look at your relationships
If someone’s energy tends to bring you down, it’s okay to take a step back or have an honest chat about how their words or actions make you feel. Focus on building connections with people who lift you up, value you, and bring positivity into your life.
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Challenge yourself
It’s completely normal to feel nervous or a bit scared about doing new things. But people with good self-esteem don’t let those feelings hold them back. They face challenges and give new experiences a try (like starting a new business!) When you work towards and achieve your goals, it gives your confidence a big boost and helps build your self-esteem!
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Develop your assertiveness
Being assertive is all about balancing respect—valuing other people’s opinions and needs while expecting the same in return. A great way to learn is by observing assertive people you admire and taking notes from how they handle things. It’s not about pretending to be someone else—it’s about using those tips to let the best, most confident version of you shine through!
Where can I get more support?
If you are supported by a DWP Work Coach they may be able to signpost you to wider support.
The NHS also have a number of helpful resources including:
Be sure to check out our case studies at the end of this guide for inspiration stories of people who found their calling by running their own business.
Go further with start up loans
Your previously read articles
Chapter 4
Skills mapping
Match your abilities, values and passions to create a satisfying career path.
Learn more about skills mappingDisclaimer: The Start -Up Loans Company makes reasonable efforts to keep the content of this article up to date, but we do not guarantee or warrant (implied or otherwise) that it is current, accurate or complete. This article is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind, including legal, financial, tax or other professional advice. You should always seek professional or specialist advice or support before doing anything on the basis of the content of this article.
The Start-Up Loans Company is not liable for any loss or damage (foreseeable or not) that may come from relying on this article, whether as a result of our negligence, breach of contract or otherwise. “Loss” includes (but is not limited to) any direct, indirect or consequential loss, loss of income, revenue, benefits, profits, opportunity, anticipated savings, or data. We do not exclude liability for any liability which cannot be excluded or limited under English law. Reference to any person, organisation, business, or event does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation from The Start-Up Loans Company, its parent company British Business Bank plc, or the UK Government.
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