How do I improve my self-esteem?

Through behaviour more than affirmations — keeping small promises to yourself, building competence in something, reducing harsh self-talk to the standard you'd apply to a friend, and limiting comparison-heavy environments. Persistent low self-worth often responds well to therapy.

Behavioural evidence works better than affirmations — doing difficult things and keeping small commitments builds a track record the mind cannot easily dismiss.

Persistent, longstanding low self-worth, especially with self-criticism and shame, responds well to structured therapy and is worth professional help rather than self-management alone.