How to improve your self-esteem as an apprentice 

This month hot topic explores low self-esteem and how you can improve your self-esteem as an apprentice. Many people experience a lack confidence in themselves, doubt their abilities and struggle go see their own worth. Low self-esteem can affect your mental health and wellbeing and also have an impact on your social and professional life. In this article we will discuss the causes of low self-esteem and how you can work to improve it. 

What can cause low self-esteem 

Low self-esteem can be caused by a number of factors including past experiences such as negative comments, bullying or failures that make you question yourself. In today’s digital world ‘comparison syndrome’ also plays a part in low self-esteem as scrolling through social media and can make you feel like everyone else is a superhero while you’re just a sidekick. 

Additionally, having very high expectations for yourself and setting impossible standards can cause you to feel like you’ll never measure up. All these and more can lead to negative self-talk that can drive your self-worth even lower. 

How can we overcome low self-esteem 

Negative thoughts can make you feel like you are not worthy, the thoughts creep into your mind and make you doubt yourself. We are the ones that can stop these thoughts and one of the best ways to do this is by practising mindfulness and gratitude, two powerful tools that help shift your focus from self-criticism to self-empowerment. 

Stop & question your thoughts 

Low self-esteem thrives on unchallenged thoughts like “I always mess up” or “I’m not good enough.” But just because you think it, doesn’t mean it’s true! Ask yourself: Where’s the actual evidence? Would I say this to a friend? Most of the time, it’s just fear trying to hold you back. Instead, reframe it swap “I’ll never be good at this” with “I’m still learning and improving!” Every time you challenge a negative thought; you weaken its power and strengthen your confidence! 

Keep a positivity log 

We all need to remember our positivity changes and the wins we may have had. Self-esteem grows when you focus on what you have accomplished instead of what you haven’t. Each day, write down three positives, big or small. It could be finishing a task, speaking up, or simply showing up on a tough day. Over time, this list becomes undeniable proof of your progress. When self-doubt creeps in, read through your wins and remind yourself just how strong you truly are. 

Learn to be assertive 

Being assertive is about respecting other people’s opinions and needs and expecting the same from them. One trick is to look at other people who act assertively and copy what they do. It’s not about pretending you’re someone you’re not. It’s picking up hints and tips from people you admire and letting the real you come out. 

For more information check out the NHS – ‘How to Be Happier Guide’ for hints and tips to help with your wellbeing – Click Here for NHS – How to be Happier Guide 

Should you require additional support you can also reach out to your LMP tutor or mentor.