Building Your Confidence

[Andrea Roe]

During and before my struggles with eating disorders, I never felt good enough. I didn't feel worthy. Like everybody else was better than me. Like my opinion didn't matter as much as others' did.

If you feel the same, I'd like you to know that you are worthy! You are special! And you can learn to love yourself! It's just a matter of working on your self-esteem. Here are some exercises that helped me during my recovery.

- Stop thinking negative thoughts about yourself. Of course, that's easier said than done but lots of practice will eliminate the negativity in your head. Pay attention to your thoughts, and whenever you catch yourself being too critical about yourself, counter it by focusing on positive aspects of yourself and your life.

- View mistakes as learning experiences. We all make mistakes. They are a normal part of life. And whenever you make a mistake, don't beat yourself up for it. Learn to accept that making mistakes is normal. Accept that you will make mistakes because everyone does. And whenever you make a mistake, do your best to learn something from this experience. Take something away from it. Grow with it.

- Make a difference. Help a classmate who is having trouble, volunteer your time to help make your community a better place or to something else that makes a positive difference in someone's life. By doing so, not only do you help them, but you will also feel better too.

These suggestions will help you get started to rebuilding your self-esteem. Give them a try and see how it goes, how it feels, and see how you grow. Be proud of every small step you take. Day by day it will get just a little better, until one day you'll notice how confident in yourself you've become.

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Andrea Roe recovered from eating disorders, depression and severe body image issues. It is her passion to share her story, raise awareness, support others in their healing journey and spread the message of Hope - that recovery really is possible.

For more information about Andrea's recovery and to get in touch with her, visit www.youarenotalonebook.com

[Lori]

Andrea,

Thanks so much for sharing these most helpful tips. Hopefully your support and message will help heal others on their journey.