Self-Esteem Boosters: Ten Ways To Love Yourself By Michael Lee

You weren't born perfect - nobody is. But you can do something to make your life a lot better than what is experienced by the average individual. The people who are the happiest with their lives are those who can learn to love themselves just the way they are.

Here are some suggestions on how to place yourself up on that pedestal and laugh at negative energy.

Pay Yourself A Compliment

Give yourself a compliment at least once a day. It could be something like "I really liked the way I handled that situation," or "I love how my hair falls softly onto my face today". The compliment can be deep or superficial. Whatever it is, it should help keep your mood up, even if only slightly. Highlight the positive aspect of every situation you encounter. If you practice this often, you're on your way to liking yourself a whole lot better.

Make Yourself Over

Grab your closest friend and get all dolled up. Put on your best attire, dab on a little make-up and get your hair done (not necessarily by a professional), then grab a camera and snap fun and funny photos of each other. Once you've had the photos printed, discard those that make you look drab and keep only the shots were you looked your best. Whenever you feel down, you can just go look at these pictures to remind yourself that you are good-looking and that your life is fun.

Get Physically Fit

You don't need to achieve a supermodel-like physique. Simple daily exercises to boost your bloodstream every morning will do. You'll feel better, your mood will be more positive, and the more congenial you will be with other people. If you give out positive energy, the more beautiful you become - and the more people will be inclined to return positive vibes to you, too.

Change Your Body Image

If there's something in your body that you dislike, find out what's causing you to smirk at it. Chances are, the reasons are very shallow and superficial. The realization of this will help you attain a better self-image and teach you to appreciate yourself more.

Treat Yourself

Set aside time once a week to do something just for you. It could be anything from watching a cheesy movie to walking your dog in the park. As long as it's time for you in doing what you want to do.

Wear Nice Underwear

This sounds silly, but it works! Wearing really cute knickers does make you feel better and a lot more confident about facing others. Don't believe this? Try it!

List Your Good Points

Without looking at the mirror, make a list of all the things you appreciate and like about your body - things like, "I have great hair" or "I have a nice set of teeth". Keep this list in your wallet or wherever you can see them and whenever you feel terrible, just take out this list and read it to yourself.

Travel

Ask a few of your best pals to spend a day out of town with you. Pack a delicious snack and spend the day fishing or hiking, or whatever suits your interests. A day in the fresh air is sure to give you an energy boost and make you feel good about yourself.

Get Away From People Who Put You Down

You know these kinds of people. They simply can't stand the fact that you're okay with your life and will always try to dampen your mood. Avoid them at all cost, because they'll never make you feel good about yourself. Learn how to say no to people who only have their self-interest in mind.

Do A Good Deed

Do something good for someone else. You will find that things like volunteering at a homeless shelter or even a simple thing like helping somebody who is lost by giving proper directions will make you feel good for the rest of the day. You'll be doing something worthwhile and when you see how badly off some people are, you'll start to appreciate your life more and be grateful for what you have.