How to Become Less Self-Conscious About Your Body

The way you feel about yourself on the inside shows on the outside. When your self-confidence is low, you may slump, frown, end conversations quickly and perform other actions that will keep people at a distance, because you assume that others will dislike you as much as you dislike yourself.

On the other hand, when you feel good about yourself, you smile more; you are more willing to engage in light conversation with others; and you carry yourself in an easier, more-graceful manner. Building self-confidence can positively affect many aspects of your life, including your work life, your social life and your romantic life.

Things You’ll Need

• Sticky notes
• Pen
• Planner
• Mirror

7 Steps to Become Less Self-Conscious About Your Body

1. A true friend will care about your feelings.

Surround yourself with supportive friends. If you have negative friends who put you down, tell them honestly that their words are hurtful to you. If they scoff at your sincerity or refuse to change their behavior, it may be time to end the relationships.

Telling them you cannot speak to them anymore if they do not end the harmful chatter may be the catalyst they need to change their own attitudes.

2. Give yourself a little pep talk while getting ready for work.

Stand in front of a mirror, and find at least five things you like about your body. Maybe your hair has great texture, or you have straight teeth or you have a smattering of flattering freckles on your shoulders. Each time you look in the mirror, give yourself a compliment about one of these features. Be on the lookout for more great things about yourself.

3. Write yourself some nice notes on self-adhesive paper, and stick them where you are sure to see them.

For example, remind yourself “You have a beautiful smile!” and stick the note to the coffeemaker before you go to bed. When you wake up in the morning, you’ll have a little pick-me-up before you leave the house.

4. List the reasons you feel bad about yourself.

Take each of these things and determine whether you can do anything to change it. If you can, great. If you can’t, then tell yourself, “This is out of my hands and there is nothing I can do about it.” Let it go — surrender.

5. Set a realistic goal, and go for it.

If you want to lose weight, get yourself some running shoes and workout wear, and take up jogging or get a gym membership. Exercise releases endorphines, which are chemicals that make you feel good. Fill your kitchen with foods that are tasty and good for you.

6. The shopping experience alone may lift your spirits.

Go shopping for a new outfit, one that fits well, feels comfortable and looks good. Take a trusted friend with you who knows what makes you look good. A new ensemble is an immediate self-esteem booster.

7. Find the reasons your friends think you are wonderful.

Remember that you are often your own worst critic, so give yourself a break. Many of the things you hate about yourself may be much loved by someone who cares about you. Your boyfriend probably loves the scar on your chin from that bicycle wreck when you were 12.

The bump in the bridge of your nose makes your girlfriend smile. The people who love you love all of you, not just the parts you agree are attractive.

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