If you struggle with low self-esteem, you’re not alone. For many people in recovery, it may have even influenced you to use in the first place.
Luckily, self-esteem is something you can work to increase. And putting in the effort to build your self-confidence will give you greater confidence in your ability to get (and stay) sober. Get started with these steps:
- Get to know and accept yourself. Part of recovery is getting to know (and love) the new sober you. Re-acquaint yourself with your strengths, imperfections and unique qualities that make you, well, you.
- Recognize negative thought patterns -- and then redirect them. Of course, this will take some practice. Try it: Next time you find yourself saying, “I can’t…” stop and say “I can try…” or “This is difficult, but I can do it.”
- Focus on success. Each minute, each day, each week sober is a success – so, not to sound cliché, but give yourself credit where it’s do. Along the same lines, try not to dwell on your failures.
- Set small realistic goals. Setting unrealistic expectations is the perfect formula for low self-esteem. Instead, increase your confidence by setting achievable goals. For example, don’t strive to run every day for 20 minutes if you haven’t worked out in years. Instead, set a goal to walk for 10 minutes today.
- Make a commitment to yourself. You and only you can truly do the work it takes to increase your self-esteem. Remind yourself that you can do this and that you deserve to be confident, happy and sober. And be patient: Change takes time; don’t expect your self-esteem to increase overnight.
- Avoid comparing yourself to others. Unfortunately, social media makes this nearly impossible – but next time you begin using others as a benchmark of your own worth, stop. This type of comparison can spin you into a frenzy of self-doubt.
- Surround yourself with supportive people. Sure, self-esteem comes from within, but the support of others certainly can’t hurt. A positive mentor, sponsor, therapist, friend or family member can help you to see the good in yourself.
Relapse Prevention at Complete Harmony
At Complete Harmony, our holistic relapse prevention plans provide the tools to build your self-esteem and work toward lifelong sobriety. After recovery, our staff encourages you to continue holistic therapies and find groups and community resources that support your commitment to sobriety. To learn more, call 866-930-4673.
