How to Build Self-Esteem from the Inside Out
By Reetta Makinen — InPeace Psychotherapy & Counselling
Low self-esteem is usually shaped by past experiences, not a reflection of your true worth. Explore five practical ways to restore a healthy sense of self from the inside out.
It involves an internal belief that you are competent, capable and deserving of respect, even when faced with mistakes, setbacks or criticism. Instead of relying on constant reassurance or achievement, healthy self-esteem is anchored in consistent self-awareness, balanced self-evaluation and the ability to hold compassion for oneself during difficult moments.
For many people seeking psychotherapy in Byron Bay, questions around self-worth and inner confidence are some of the most common themes. When self-esteem is built from the inside out, it comes from knowing your worth, honouring your needs and trusting yourself. Here’s how to begin nurturing that kind of inner foundation.
What self-esteem really means
Self-esteem is your overall sense of value and self-respect. It’s shaped by:
early relationships
internalised beliefs about yourself
how you respond to challenges
your inner dialogue
what you believe you deserve
You don’t build true self-esteem by becoming “better.” You build it by treating yourself with the same compassion you offer others - something I work on often with clients in self-esteem therapy here in Byron Bay.
Five steps you can take build your self-esteem
1. Start with Self-Awareness
A helpful first step in building self-esteem is becoming aware of what influences it. You might begin by asking yourself:
“How do I speak to myself when I’m struggling?”
“What stories do I carry about being ‘not enough’?”
“Whose voice does my inner critic sound like?”
Awareness creates space for change.
2. Challenge the Inner Critic
People with low self-esteem often live with a harsh internal voice that says:
“You’re not doing enough.”
“You should be better by now.”
“Others are doing it right - why aren’t you?”
This voice is learned, and it can be softened.
Try responding gently:
“I’m allowed to take my time.”
“I deserve kindness too.”
“I’m trying, and that matters.”
These shifts are often a turning point for clients seeking self-worth therapy in Byron Bay.
3. Strengthen Your Inner Safety
Self-esteem grows when being yourself feels safe. This involves:
allowing your feelings instead of judging them
giving yourself permission to rest
recognising what triggers shame or self-criticism
building routines that support your wellbeing
When you feel safe inside, confidence emerges naturally.
4. Celebrate small wins
People often overlook progress because they expect big, dramatic change. True self-esteem grows through small wins:
keeping a promise to yourself
setting a boundary
trying something new
showing up despite discomfort
Small wins reinforce your belief in yourself.
5. Build supportive relationships
Self-esteem flourishes in relationships where you feel respected, understood and valued. Choose connections that support your worth, not diminish it. Many people engaging in psychotherapy in Byron Bay find that strengthening their support networks is a crucial part of healing.
Building self-esteem that lasts
When self-esteem relies on external validation, it rises and falls with the reactions of others. But when it’s built from within, it becomes steadier, more resilient and deeply rooted in your sense of self. You deserve a relationship with yourself that feels compassionate, confident and true.
Therapy offers a supportive space to explore old beliefs, soften the inner critic, heal underlying emotional patterns and develop a stronger, kinder and more grounded sense of self-worth.
If you’re looking for a Byron Bay therapist for self-esteem, you’re welcome to book an initial call or read more about my approach here.
