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What is Self-Esteem? Self-esteem is the value that you place upon yourself: your pride in your true self. Sense of worth comes from: knowing the difference between right and wrong; feeling acceptable and appealing to your significant others; Knowing your abilities - and your limits; belonging to a community; and knowing your place in the world. High self-esteem means that you have confidence and that you believe yourself to be worthy of happiness. Why is Self-Esteem Important? People with high self-esteem avoid risky behavior, such as: smoking, unsafe sex, reckless driving, excessive gambling, abuse of drugs or alcohol, and dysfunctional or destructive relationships. They do not tolerate disrespect in their marriage and refuse to be exploited. People with high self-esteem take care of themselves and maintain their physical well-being through exercise, good hygiene, healthy eating, recreation, and social support. They set goals and expect to achieve them. They live their values and strive to act with integrity. What Can Be Done About Low Self-Esteem? Low self-esteem is characteristic of depression. Abuse, neglect, deprivation or exploitation during childhood predict low self-esteem, and may result in harsh, critical self-management: such a person is said to be hard on themselves. Another sign of low self-esteem is excessive self-sacrifice: a person who cannot say "no". Psychotherapy enhances self-esteem by encouraging "healthy selfishness" and appropriate boundaries. "You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection." - Buddha |
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