A lot of stress, unhappiness, overeating and deliberate self-starving in life is caused by low self-esteem. A positive self-image is the cornerstone of a lasting relationship, and the more confident you are, the better you perform and consequently achieve success. High self-esteem also means peace of mind since you know and respect who you are and what you want. We should all strive for a healthy sense of self-worth. You should be proud of who you are and be totally comfortable in your own skin.
Here are some steps that should start you off quite nicely:
Create a list of people that you admire. Write down why you admire each person. As you are writing the characteristics you like, take notice of what you are writing down. You'll notice a lot of things that aren't related to looks.
Next, write down what you like about yourself. Many of us suffer from the "one-sided" syndrome - we lock in on the things we feel are wrong with ourselves and conveniently ignore the things which we can and should feel good about! So flip it around! Take note of all the things about yourself that you like or can easily improve.
Also, notice how you carry yourself when you walk. Do you walk with your head down looking at the ground? Do you slump your shoulders? Do you avoid eye contact with other people?
Try perking up! Start walking with a spring in your step and start making eye contact with people. Now this next one is pure common sense - start exercising. If your physique is getting you down, change it! You don't have to resort to manic diets or surgery. Exercise, when done in a realistic and fun way is truly enjoyable. It's mankind's age-old method for instantly looking and feeling better! Don't punish yourself, start slow and easy and work your way up.
And hang out with positive and cheerful people. Make humour and optimism a way of life. Learn to laugh at things, especially yourself, because if you can do that, it means you've transcended the trap of being obsessed with the way you look or are. There are many other things in life more worthwhile to pursue and to enjoy.
If your looks or abilities are the only things you're concerned about, aren't you limiting your potential for joy?
Eugine Loh, 938Live, MediaCorp Pte Ltd
