How to Double Your Self-Esteem: 5 Simple Shifts That Work

What Are You Telling Yourself All Day?

Take a look at the image above. A mighty lion stares into a mirror... but what does he see?

Not another lion. Just a small dog. That’s a confidence issue right there—he sees himself as less than he truly is.

🐶 Fun fact: that little dog in the mirror? That’s our dog, Honey. She’s a Chihuahua mix—small package, big personality. Wanna see her in action? You can meet her here on YouTube 🐾

I once heard something that really stuck with me: “Do you know who you talk to the most every day? Yourself.” And isn’t that true? But here’s the real question:

• What kind of things are you saying to yourself all day long?

Are you building yourself up with kind and encouraging thoughts? Or are you tearing yourself down with criticism and doubt?

That inner voice plays a huge role in shaping our self-esteem and our overall sense of respect for ourselves. The good news? You can change that voice—little by little, starting today.

Here are five simple yet powerful shifts that have helped me quiet the negativity and rebuild self-worth from the inside out.

1. Treat Yourself Like Someone You Love

We’re often kind, forgiving, and gentle with those we love—but when it comes to ourselves, we can be harsh critics.

Try saying this to yourself today:
“You’re doing okay. I’m proud of you.”

This one simple phrase can be the turning point toward better self-esteem.

2. Learn to Filter Out the Negative

There will always be people who say things that hurt. If we hold onto every word, our confidence slowly erodes.

Try this mindset:
“That’s their opinion—not my reality.”

Don’t let someone who barely knows you define your worth. Practice letting go of words that don’t serve you.

3. Know What You Like—and What You’re Good At

Self-esteem grows not from comparison, but from self-awareness.

Make a list of what you enjoy and what you’re naturally good at.

• I express myself better in writing than speaking.
• I get creative when I’m alone.
• I’m sensitive to others’ emotions.

Understanding your strengths builds inner confidence—because no one else has your exact mix of gifts.

4. Stop Comparing—Honor Your Own Pace

Social media tends to show filtered success and highlight reels. But real confidence comes from honoring your own rhythm.

Remind yourself:
“I’m on my own path, and it matters just as much.”

People with healthy self-respect don’t give up easily, even when facing obstacles. On the other hand, those lacking self-worth tend to view small setbacks as major failures. Let’s change that pattern—starting today.

5. Set Small, Achievable Goals First

Overly ambitious goals can sometimes backfire and make us feel worse when we fall short. Start with tiny wins to build momentum.

• Take a 10-minute walk today
• Drink 6 glasses of water
• Say something kind to yourself in the mirror

Small wins = growing trust in yourself.

✨ More Things You Can Try

The Awake! magazine (No. 1, 2024) offers a few more timeless and practical tips:

• Choose upbuilding friends
  Spend time with people who respect you, care about your well-being, and build you up.
• Help others
  Serving others—especially when there’s nothing in return—can bring deep and lasting happiness.
• Help your children cultivate self-respect
  Letting children solve problems on their own (as much as they’re able) helps them develop inner strength that lasts into adulthood.

You can read the full article here.

Final Thoughts

Self-esteem isn’t something you’re either born with or not—it’s something you build.

Every small choice to treat yourself with kindness, patience, and courage is a brick in that foundation.

You are worthy. You matter.
At PTO 365 Life, we hope every day feels more like your day off—and your chance to thrive.

📌 Related reads from PTO 365 Life:

• Take Control of Negative Emotions: 4 Powerful Ways to Reset Your Mindset
• Small Habits, Big Results: The Science-Backed Way to Transform Your Life

---

This blog post won't share itself... but you can fix that 😉