A Word From H.O.M.E.

February is International Boost Self-Esteem Month. Self-esteem can affect your physical health as well as your mental health, and having high self-esteem and increased confidence is tied to improved relationships with others, increases in altruistic behavior, and higher levels of capability in work performance and home life. Here are a few tips from H.O.M.E. to increase your self-esteem and your quality of life, in the process!
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1. Take a break from social media: With constant, instant access to social media platforms, it’s easy to fall into a pattern of comparing ourselves to others, or carefully curating the image of ourselves we present to the world. Take some time to unplug, and when you are using social media, remind yourself that what you’re viewing isn’t always reflecting reality.
2. Positive reframing and cultivating positive thoughts: When you find yourself thinking or verbalizing self-criticism, remind yourself that you’re deserving of the same generosity, patience, and gratitude that you show others. Take the time to reflect on your unique skills and strengths, and practice reminding yourself of them on a regular basis. If you catch yourself saying or thinking something negative, practice positive reframing. For example “I’m so stupid for making that mistake” could be reframed as “I made a mistake. I’ve learned a way to perform better next time a similar issue arises.” This can be difficult, but it gets easier with practice!
3. Surround yourself with supportive people: Spend time with people who love and care about you as often as you can. When you’re struggling to remember your own self- worth, your friends and family can provide support and point out positive qualities you might be struggling to see in yourself. Even when they’re not around, thinking about what these people would say about you can help to boost your self esteem, especially in a moment when you’re being hard on yourself.

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