4 simple steps to overcome low self-esteem
When living abroad, our self-esteem can feel diminished because we don’t feel in control.
If you are living abroad and want to overcome low self-esteem, take these 4 simple steps…
Affirmations to empower self-esteem
Affirmations are simply positive thoughts that you say out loud to yourself every day. This can be very difficult at times because you may not actually believe what you are saying. SO why would you say something to yourself that you don’t believe?
Increased self-esteem has to start with you. So, if you feel insecure with your acquired language and intimidated by people, start to say something like the following: I am NOT bad talking in Japanese (or your new language!) and I am NOT intimidated by people. I am VERY confident when I get around people in a new language.
Repeat this to yourself out loud at least 10 times before you leave your room. When you say this, with confidence, say it as many times as necessary until you say it with passion and conviction.
Read to grow
Again, increased self-esteem starts with you. Read something in your new language every day for at least 30 minutes that will help you increase your self-esteem. This can be an article, a book, or even an audio series. The more you learn the more you will grow. The more you grow, the more your self-esteem will improve.
Take action every day to up your self-esteem
Do something every day, starting with something small, that directly deals with your low self-esteem. For instance, if you can’t talk with people because you feel insecure in the acquired language, just start off by saying ‘Hi’. As you get more comfortable with this, then start to make small talk. You will begin to feel more confident and more confident until one day, you will find that you have overcome low self-esteem in that area.
Rename your negative thoughts
Negative thoughts are like liars. As soon as you step out to face your fear, a negative thought comes and tells you that you can’t do it and agh!; you believe it and lose your confidence. Instead, dissolve negative thoughts before they have a chance to get you.
A great way to do this is by naming the fear with the most ridiculous and funny name you can think of. You will visualise it as small and harmless, and you will face it with laughter!
Be creative! Name it like a child would name a funny face. 🥸
These four steps will help you increase your self-esteem and become the person you really want to be. Just remember this: you are not going to change overnight. It will take time but as long as you are progressing, you are getting a new skill along the way. And you are getting new friends!
Do you want to know more about Expat Life and how to benefit the most out of it?
Are you looking for more personalized tips and feel more at ease while living abroad?
I am an Expat Life Coach practitioner with more than 20 years living abroad. Through coaching sessions, I can provide some guidance to you. You will not feel lost in your new country, but start feeling more engaged and determined.
You may contact me by clicking the button below and booking a consultation call.
If what you are looking for is to learn more about how to invest in yourself and grow while living abroad, visit the Launch You program to get some ideas!
See you at my next post!