Self-Esteem and Body Image

People tend to think that guys don’t worry as much about their appearance as girls do, but this isn’t true! Finding ways to be positive about your appearance is the key to building a healthy body image and good self-esteem.

What is body image?

Body image is based on your thoughts and feelings about the way your body looks. You may feel positively or negatively about the way your body looks to you.

What is self-esteem?

Self-esteem relates to how much you like yourself, and how you recognize or appreciate your individual character, qualities, skills, and accomplishments. Like body image, self-esteem can also be based on how you think other people look at you as a person.

People who have low self-esteem:

May not feel confident about themselves or how they look
Have a hard time seeing that they are important and capable
May avoid social situations or trying new things

People with good self-esteem:

Have a positive, confident attitude about their body and mind
Can recognize their strengths, personal value and worth
May be more social and more willing to try new things

Why is good self-esteem important?

Good self-esteem helps you keep a positive outlook on life and makes you proud of the person you are.

Most teens with good self-esteem find life much more enjoyable. They tend to have better relationships with peers and adults, find it easier to deal with mistakes or disappointments, and are more likely to stick with a task until they succeed.

Good self-esteem gives you the:

Courage to try new things
Power to believe in yourself
Confidence to make healthy choices for your mind and body now and throughout your life

Is there anything I can do if my self esteem is low?

Everyone has had the experience of feeling bad about something. Your self-esteem can always be changed for the better!

Talk with someone who can offer encouragement and support, such as a close friend or relative who you trust, a teacher or a coach, or friends who may be going through similar experiences.
If you are uncomfortable talking about self-esteem issues, try activities you enjoy or feel you are good at.
If you are feeling very sad and discouraged most of the time, it is important to contact your health care provider or a counselor. They can help you to find ways to cope.

What can I do to build self-confidence about the way I look?

There are many ways to help boost self-confidence, such as:

Wearing clothes that suit your body type
Practicing good hygeine: showering regularly, taking care of your hair, teeth and skin
Eating nutritious foods to keep your body healthy
Exercising to maintain a healthy body weight and/or build muscle

You may not always have control over all parts of your appearance, but you do have the power to keep a positive attitude towards yourself. Try not to be too self-critical. Everyone is different, and no one is perfect.

How can I develop a positive attitude?

A positive attitude can come by defining an identity for yourself that is not based on looks or negative things other people may say.

Focus on the good things you do: Spend time concentrating on your unique qualities.
Focus on your education: Learning gives you the power to make a difference in your life and in the lives of others.
Participate in a variety of sports or activities: This can be a great way to stay healthy and fit and also make new friends.
Take up a new hobby or learn to play an instrument: Have you ever wanted to play the guitar? Maybe you want to learn how to play chess. Find your hidden talents!
Set and reach new goals: Having something to look forward to can give you a sense of pride and help you work through different challenges throughout your life.
Be an inspiration to others: If you've thought of your own ways to cope with social situations and find confidence, you may be able to help others.

Building a healthy body image and good self-esteem can be hard work. It takes time to become confident. As you work to improve your body image, you will experience self-acceptance and learn to recognize the qualities, skills and talents that make you special.

Written by the CYWH and YMH Staff at Children's Hospital Boston

Updated: 3/4/2010

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