6 ways to boost your self esteem

If you're like most millennial women, you're juggling a lot—career aspirations, relationships, fitness goals, side hustles, maybe even a perfectionist inner critic whispering that you're not doing enough. It's exhausting. And somewhere in all of that, self-esteem can quietly take a hit. But here's the truth: confidence isn't something you're born with—it's something you build. In this month’s blog I show you how.

Self-esteem is talked about a lot as something we need in order to be successful and happy, but what is it? Well self-esteem refers to your overall sense of your own worth or value. It’s the feeling of having confidence within your self and your own abilities and is often related to pride, satisfaction and self-respect. Self-esteem is known to impact your motivation, overall wellbeing and quality of life so it’s an important aspect of yourself to learn about and protect.

Think of self-esteem like a muscle. The more you train it, the stronger it gets. With this in mind, here are 6 powerful and practical ways to boost your self-esteem starting today:

1) Refine the way you talk to yourself

If you wouldn’t say the things you say to yourself to your best friend then it’s time to stop. Your inner critic (because that’s what it is) isn’t in control, you are! The harshness of that inner voice isn’t helpful and it’s untrue! So, start noticing your self-talk and challenge it. Replace “I’m not good enough” with “I’m doing by best and that’s enough right now.” Be your own cheerleader not your own worst enemy.

2) Set boundaries

Growing up as a “good girl” may have led to you feeling like you can’t say no, causing guilt and pressure to do things even if you don’t want to. It’s time to get real. Confidence grows when you protect your energy. Learning to say “no” without feeling guilty isn’t selfish, it’s self-respect in action. Practise saying “no” using statements that feel less scary. Try “that doesn’t work for me” or “can we do it another time.” You don’t need to justify taking care of yourself so make a promise to yourself moving forwards that you’ll only say “yes” to things that light you up.

3) Be mindful of who’s in your circle

Spend time with people who celebrate your wins, support your growth and remind you of your worth, especially during the times you forget! If someone consistently drains you or makes you question yourself then it’s time to re-evaluate that connection and the place that person has in your life. This can be hard but letting go of things that don't serve you will help you boost your self-esteem.

4) Celebrate every win, big or small

You don’t have to wait for the big promotion or the perfect relationship to feel good about yourself. Start acknowledging the little things—getting out of bed on a tough day, speaking up in a meeting, or making time for self-care. Confidence builds through consistent, small acts of self-recognition. Incorporate this into your daily journalling, if that’s something you already do. If not, then start to simply be mindful of everyday activities that feel like wins to you, because they are worth celebrating!

5) Practise liking who you see in the mirror

When was the last time you looked in the mirror and liked what you saw? We all have body hang-ups and things we wish we could change. However, those with high self-esteem look at things a little differently. Instead of focusing on the parts of yourself you don’t like, focus on what your body does for you. It carries you through life, it allows you to hug your loved ones, it lets you dance to your favourite song. It’s worthy of appreciation and recognition, so instead of loathing it, respect it. Nurture it.

6) Invest in yourself

Read the book. Book the therapy or coaching session. Take the course. Do the journalling. Personal growth is the ultimate act of self-love. It sends a clear message to yourself: I am worth the time, money, and effort it takes to become the version of me I want to be. So go do the thing you’ve been putting off; it’ll make you feel good!

You don’t have to be fearless to feel confident. You just have to start showing up for yourself, one step at a time. Self-esteem isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. And you’re already on your way. Do these things not because you “have to” but because you deserve to feel confident, capable and unapologetically you.

P.S. If you want more tools to build your self-esteem and confidence so that you feel empowered to create the life you truly want, let’s talk.