Leadership and self-esteem are very dependent on each other. A person with high self-esteem will not feel threatened by other ideas. They empower and encourage themselves and others around them. They bring out the best version of the team. However, a person with low self-esteem can be controlling and disrupt the growth and opportunities of the whole team.

It is crucial to work on self-esteem in order to bring out the best leadership skills for yourself and your peers. Here are some ways to improve your self-esteem:

• Stop listening to your inner self when it tells you that you are not good enough; you are!
• Take risks. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Not knowing the answer to something isn’t embarrassing; it shows you’re self-aware and that you understand the value of knowledge. You need to get out of your comfort zone to challenge your self-esteem.
• Speak confidently with your heart.
• Learn to accept feedback without becoming defensive. If someone gives you constructive feedback, accept it. View this as an opportunity for growth.
• Be kind and compassionate to yourself for completing the smallest and tiniest task. Imagine if someone spoke to you the way you speak to yourself, would you be okay with it?

Adapt these ways to achieve better self-esteem, in order to become a better leader at home, school, work and even in society. It all starts with you.