7 Practical Tips to Build Your Self-Esteem

“Beauty is only skin-deep.”

I first heard this saying when I was 14, and it hasn't left me since. At that age, I was already programmed to believe that fair skin was neat, subtle, and favored. Can you imagine where that left me?

Self-esteem isn't just about how you look physically, but your outer appearance can alter your reality and self-worth in ways that run much deeper than we realize.

Here's what I've learned: some businesses thrive on your insecurity. If you truly loved and accepted yourself, entire industries would struggle. The beauty and lifestyle sectors create brands that make you feel valuable only through external validation. They creep into your self-esteem, question your beliefs, and compel you to try products that promise to elevate your worth.

But self-esteem is homemade. I struggled with this truth for years, and it altered my confidence and my self-perception growing up.

You have to dig deeper, uncover your functional attributes, and practice genuine self-love to reach your potential. Perspective is everything—look at situations from multiple angles, and you'll grasp reality more clearly.

Here are seven practical points to help build authentic self-esteem:

1) Sharpen your natural gifts. Whether it's writing, singing, drawing, dancing—that talent wasn't given to you to be hidden. Practice until you master it. Confidence blooms when you know what you know. You have a place in this world, even if you see yourself as small.

The talent you keep to yourself is often someone else's dream. The difference? Some people are willing to face exposure, criticism, and the possibility of learning from mistakes. Use the power of practice and never stop sharpening your skills.

2) Step into the community. Volunteer or participate in activities that expose you to different people. This trains your communication skills and builds leadership abilities.

Too often, we either mimic others or stay on the sidelines because we believe we can't step forward. Be brave even when you feel otherwise—nobody knows the difference. Once you step into the spotlight, you'll realize it's not as blinding as you imagined.

3) Invest in personal development. Seek out workshops and learning opportunities. They expand your horizon and help you see yourself in a different light. You'll never know your capabilities if you keep doing the same things over and over.

4) Network intentionally. You may have a high IQ and common sense, but don't limit yourself to what you already know. Keep learning from others while sharing your own knowledge. Don't settle for being wallpaper.

Networking isn't about being extroverted or introverted—those are just labels that can become limiting beliefs. It's about connecting authentically with purpose.

5) Present yourself well. Dress up and experiment with different styles. This doesn't mean following every trend or being shallow—it means finding ways to honor yourself through how you show up. You don't need luxury brands; spend within your means and walk tall.

6) Expand your mind. Learn a foreign language, take up new skills, or dive into subjects that fascinate you. Flexibility is powerful—once you stretch your mind to new knowledge, it never returns to its original limitations. This adaptability helps you bounce back from any crisis.

7) Practice positive affirmation. Choose affirmations that genuinely resonate with you. Create new beliefs about your identity and share that energy with the world.

Love yourself, and you'll accept nothing less from others.

You are unique. No one can perform for you but you, so embrace your individuality and own your stage. Go ahead and shine, even if it's too bright for some.

Believe you can't, and you can't. Think you can, and you can. It's all about perspective, so focus on what brings you genuine joy.

In form, you are and will always be inferior to some, superior to others. In essence, you are neither inferior nor superior to anyone. True self-esteem and true humility arise out of that realization.— Eckhart Tolle