Keeping a diary is a great way to work on your self-acceptance.

Self-esteem starts with self-acceptance. If you’d like to work on your confidence, the first step is to be aware of who you really are deep down. Only then can you build solid relationships with others. Here are a few tips to help you get in touch with the real “you.”

• Keep a diary

Not only is keeping a diary an excellent way to vent, but it also forces you to spend time alone with your thoughts and feelings. As you fill in the pages of your notebook, you’ll experience personal growth—and you just might learn a thing or two about yourself.

• Take risks

Trying something new is an excellent way to expand your horizons and develop your self-esteem. Stepping outside your comfort zone requires you to adapt, develop skills and monitor your reactions.

• Ask yourself the right questions

What are your interests? Your skills? Your weaknesses? Where would you like to be tomorrow? In five years? In 1ten? Analyze yourself: consider who you are and what you really like.

• Be outgoing

Being alone is essential to soul-searching; on the other hand, helping others, expressing compassion, becoming a better listener and other social gestures can fuel your journey of self-discovery.

Being self-aware is only the first step. You also need to trust yourself, learn from your mistakes and have a positive attitude. Good luck with your introspection!