What are some good ways to improve one's self esteem?

Meeting new people can sometimes be difficult, but they may be thinking the same way you are thinking. Just because someone outwardly seems confident, doesn’t mean their stomach isn’t churning inside.
Start thinking positively, start loving yourself. Just walk up to a stranger and say ‘hello’. You may be surprised at how easy it becomes over time. Good luck

You need to get control of your negative self-talk. I recommend the book Self Parenting.

Find people to be around that will tell you all the time that you’re beautiful and amazing. That’s what I did.

one small step is to take extra effort with your appearance. I said I was going to start wearing jeans to work instead of sweats, and it worked for a few days, until “magically” my jeans were a bit tighter than they were the week before. ahem. So I’m back to the sweats for a little while until I can make my jeans fit comfortably again. BUT.. the days I did dress nicer, I felt better.

It’ll happen. Lots of young people are filled with self doubt. I was. Put yourself in social situations even if your uncomfortable with them. You’ll come around.

Do things that give you a sense of accomplishment. Find a fulfilling career that you enjoy doing and talking about. Take up interesting, challenging hobbies.

Recognition of small accomplishments go a long way. Reward yourself for every small thing you do and you’ll start to notice a positive shift in the way you think about yourself. You may even start to love yourself. But don’t get carried away. :)

This little girl has it all figured out. You can pick up some tips from her. link

Volunteer.

Help out at a food pantry.

Be a tutor for ESL classes or children.

Join the local Big Sisters/Big Brothers program and mentor a child

Become a CASA advocate.

The possibilities are endless and you’ll be working alongside positive encouraging people. Not a bad atmosphere to be in. You’ll feel good about yourself.