Esteem is a simple word, yet a powerful one.
This I learned about when studying for a degree in human science.
For example; When we hold someone in’ high esteem’ we are respecting that part of them we admire most.
More than anything this word must apply within ourselves .
We must maintain our self-esteem in order to place value on ourselves as a worthy individual in the world.
Self- esteem can affect every part of our lives. If we are feel depressed and endlessly punishing ourselves, not only do we feel dejected and low, but we are a complete distraction for those around us.
When our self-esteem is low, we base our decisions on the mood we are in to determine how we feel about our choices - Not a good idea - EVER!
So what do we do, when we feel like this. we look for outside influences to counteract the negative thoughts that pound our every waking moment.
So how do your raise your self-esteem to a level that will enrich your life and the way you view life?
Self-esteem is something we develop through life as we create an image of how we see ourselves.
This comes through life’s experiences, both good and bad.
Children that have been spoken to respectfully and listen to for what they have to say, hugged often and given encouragement for their efforts , have been gifted with the opportunity to be a confident adult.
Generally they will have a healthy self-esteem.
Self-esteem is more than being confident.
In fact it really isn’t quite that at all.
Esteem derives from the latin word ‘ to estimate’
So how do you estimate yourself?
Here are a few questions to help you make that estimation
Do I like myself?
Do I think I’m a good human being?
Am I someone deserving of love?
Do I deserve happiness?
Do I really feel, both in my mind and deep in my gut, that I’m an OK person?
People with low-self esteem find it had to say yes to these questions.
Living in a state of low self-esteem can every damaging to the quality of the life you lead on a daily basis
Your self-esteem is YOUR opinion of yourself.
Sadly far too many of us allow the opinions of others to influence us
This is true and if you ponder on this for a while you’ll soon realise how certain events, comments and encounters worth other people helped to make or break you self -esteem.
Tomorrow Part 2 is a self- esteem quiz to hep you understand yourself a little more.
Love Elizabeth x
You are your own person… you are in charge of yourself.