The dictionary defines self-esteem as one's opinion especially good opinion of oneself. It can also be defined as self-respect, confidence in your own merit as an individual person.
Self-esteem involves appreciating your worth as a person, loving yourself for who you are. A large majority of people do not like themselves. This could either be because of their physical appearance (they feel they are too fat, too skinny or lacking in good looks), mental capability (not intelligent, slow learners), or social skills (they are introverts and do not mix easily).
Low self-esteem, which can also be described as inferiority complex, is a deadly syndrome which can lead to self-destruction if not quickly nipped in the bud. Individuals with low self-esteem feel inferior to other people whom they perceive to be better than they.
Humans are social beings who crave the approval from parents, siblings, peers and from the society as a whole. When this approval is withheld it could lead to a feeling of worthlessness. For instance the recent increase in violent crimes among young people is related to the low sense of self-esteem which pervades the society. The ability to instill fear in others offers a sense of power to these young people.
This situation is worsened by the media which portrays good looks as being essential for every individual. Thus there has been a rise in the number of people especially teenagers suffering from various eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia.
Low self-esteem could result in depression and may even result in suicidal tendencies.
It was Eleanor Roosevelt who said, 'No one can make you feel inferior without your consent'. When an individual looks down on you, if you do not allow it to weigh you down then it is of no consequence.
Although your achievements may be belittled by the people around you, they may mock you because of your present circumstances or because you do not fit into their mould, do not let it weigh you down. People will always mock what they do not understand because they fear whatever appears different from the norm.
The following can be done to build up one's self-esteem:
Diagnose the root cause of the poor self-esteem: once the root cause is known, it would be easier to take the necessary steps to remedy this.
Self-esteem involves appreciating your worth as a person, loving yourself for who you are. A large majority of people do not like themselves. This could either be because of their physical appearance (they feel they are too fat, too skinny or lacking in good looks), mental capability (not intelligent, slow learners), or social skills (they are introverts and do not mix easily).
Low self-esteem, which can also be described as inferiority complex, is a deadly syndrome which can lead to self-destruction if not quickly nipped in the bud. Individuals with low self-esteem feel inferior to other people whom they perceive to be better than they.
Humans are social beings who crave the approval from parents, siblings, peers and from the society as a whole. When this approval is withheld it could lead to a feeling of worthlessness. For instance the recent increase in violent crimes among young people is related to the low sense of self-esteem which pervades the society. The ability to instill fear in others offers a sense of power to these young people.
This situation is worsened by the media which portrays good looks as being essential for every individual. Thus there has been a rise in the number of people especially teenagers suffering from various eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia.
Low self-esteem could result in depression and may even result in suicidal tendencies.
It was Eleanor Roosevelt who said, 'No one can make you feel inferior without your consent'. When an individual looks down on you, if you do not allow it to weigh you down then it is of no consequence.
Although your achievements may be belittled by the people around you, they may mock you because of your present circumstances or because you do not fit into their mould, do not let it weigh you down. People will always mock what they do not understand because they fear whatever appears different from the norm.
The following can be done to build up one's self-esteem:
Diagnose the root cause of the poor self-esteem: once the root cause is known, it would be easier to take the necessary steps to remedy this.
Read inspirational books: There are many biographies and autobiographies of people who have succeeded against all odds. These can be useful in helping to boost self-confidence as then you will realize that whatever you are going through is not peculiar to you.
It may also be helpful to have role models .i.e. individuals who have attained success in their fields of endeavor and strive to emulate them.
Avoid negative people: This is crucial to maintaining a healthy self-esteem. There are individuals who only see the negative in others. Such people will always have a negative effect on you, so I'd say steer clear of them.
Set goals: By setting goals which are achievable an individual can build up his self-esteem. As each set goal is achieved your confidence is boosted and you are encouraged to set higher targets for yourself.
Nobody is worthless; every individual is special with their own unique abilities. Remember, no one can make you feel inferior without your permission.
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