Women in Business: Seven Ways to Boost Your Self-Esteem

Whether you are a boss or climbing the career ladder, the workplace is filled with opportunities for personal development. But what happens when micro-aggressions, competitive female counterparts or demanding deadlines start to take their toll? Many women struggle with imposter syndrome or burn out because of their working environment.

As a psychotherapeutic Counsellor and Applied Behavioural Analyst, I work with dynamic women who need reminding of who they are. Here are seven ways you can shrug off self-doubt and feel confident, and ultimately thrive in the workplace.

1. Work smarter not harder

Everyone wants to feel accomplished, but it is hard if you are swamped with deadlines. You can train your brain to work smarter by creating goals and prioritising your work accordingly. Be specific about the task(s) you are doing, and ensure they are achievable within a given time frame. If it’s not realistic, communicate with your colleagues, letting them know what is a more amenable deadline. This takes some of the pressure off, making the task easier.

2. Invest in yourself

Giving yourself time to do the things that you love is crucial to thriving at work. Many people don’t invest in themselves and end up resenting their job or business. Your success at work is impacted by the way that you feel about yourself. Take the time to read, be with family, dance and have a creative outlet. This will improve your overall wellbeing and leave you feeling motivated when busy at the office.

3. Never quit

We are all human and you will have tough days. Your hormones will also have an impact on the work that you do. Take this into consideration when organising big meetings and if you can’t fit your work commitments around your menstruation, make sure you have healthy snacks that will boost your energy levels.

Whatever the reason remembering it’s okay to take breaks is crucial. Be sure to write out the tasks you have yet to complete and when you will catch up. Mapping it out in this this way will help you remain accountable.

4. Get Fit!

Working out is great but specifically working on core exercises is an amazing way to boost yourself esteem. Having a six pack is not the only reason to work on this area. The willpower needed to keep your liver, pancreas, stomach, muscles and middle back in good condition will help you see yourself in a good light. The process of transformation as you work on this area will show you what you are capable of, giving you a sense of personal achievement and give you the confidence you need.

5. Be organised
This sounds easy but having a diary and creating a timetable really does make all the difference. When completing tasks you dread, set a timer and move on. Knowing that the task will end increases your productivity. Recognise when you are at your most productive and try creating ‘red time’. This is when you will put your phone on aeroplane mode and will not address phone calls or emails- your focus is only the task you have put in your planner.

6. Dress to Impress

When you look good you feel good. Be sure to make time to take care of your appearance. Always work with what you have got and wear something that is comfortable.

7. Reflect

Many women do not celebrate their success. Maybe you are excelling in the workplace but do not take yourself for granted. Your wins are important no matter how big or small. Try keeping a jar with all your greatest achievements inside. Take a look at them from time to time to remind yourself just how far you have come.

 Sasha McBean MBACP (She/Her/Hers) is the owner of Healing Hands Counselling. If you would like to boost your self-esteem and your income, then why not take on the Self-esteem for Success challenge by e-mailing Sasha at  info@healinghandscounselling.co.uk.