Self-esteem is confidence in one’s own worth or abilities. With a brain injury, your body may not feel the same or can’t do what it used to.
When everything feels out of your control, you may begin to doubt your abilities and yourself. This can lead to a hyper-focus on your perceived flaws or weaknesses, like the things you think you can’t do. Your self-esteem may be at an all-time low as a result of self-criticism. Self-criticism can result in a pattern of behavior that keeps you from moving forward. This pattern can further reinforce your negative ideas and feelings about yourself.
It’s possible to alter your thoughts and feelings about yourself! BIAV is here to provide you tips to boost your self-confidence! Use these resources to motivate you to achieve your goals in life. It takes a lot of work, energy, and the will to change for this transition to occur. Every day is a work in progress.
Tips for gaining self-esteem
Set achievable goals
Goals are a great way to give yourself a pat on the back and be proud of your progress! Acknowledge your strengths and areas for growth when you are setting goals. Use the SMART goal method to help make your goals achievable.
Be kind to yourself
Positive self-talk will help you feel better about yourself! Focus on your strengths. Give yourself daily affirmations and have patience with yourself! Here are some great examples of affirmations you can borrow.
Build up your support network
Keep good people around that can help you feel encouraged. BIAV’s support groups and membership programs are great opportunities to connect and talk with others. Learn more about those by emailing us at info@biav.net.We also have some wonderful Support Network Events coming up from March – May! Check them out and register today.
Don’t compare yourself to others!
Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Focusing too much on comparing yourself to others will only cause you to lose sight of everything you have done! If you feel yourself getting lost in comparisons, rely on your support network and give yourself affirmations.
Appreciate yourself
You are doing a great job! Everyone has days where they don’t feel great or like they could have done better. It’s okay to be patient and take it day by day. Be proud of how far you have made it.