Does
self-esteem sound like stuff just for your kids? Not so. High
self-esteem is a major component of happiness for people of all
ages and for most of us, it requires cultivation.
How can we cultivate
self-esteem in the midst of a society that glorifies unattainable
beauty and perfection?
First, worthiness is an 'inside job.' We were born with inherent worth. Therefore, a
person's core worth is not dependent on the body, and is
independent of externals such as money, power, youth, or beauty. It
is what's on the inside that counts!
Secondly, check your thinking. Are you putting yourself down? Do you have beliefs that
eat away at your self-esteem? Thoughts such as: It's bad to think
highly of myself; I have no value since I'm older or no longer
working; Without my looks, or health, I'm nothing; I can't be happy
unless a certain condition is met; or I will never forgive myself
or someone else; are unhelpful beliefs that lead to misery. Notice
your thought patterns and challenge yourself to stop unhelpful
thinking.
Create thoughts of self-esteem. Helpful thoughts include: I accept myself as I am; I am
more than my body, mistakes, or any externals; My self-esteem is
not affected by the whims or criticisms of others; Work is one
aspect of life, and is not the entirety of my worth; I choose to
enjoy myself NOW rather than wait for any externals to happen; I
choose to forgive myself or someone else for past
mistakes.
Lastly, take care of yourself. Eat well, exercise, and develop regular sleep patterns to
recharge your body.
What are the costs of
choosing to stay in a pattern of low self-esteem? Emotional pain,
along with a vicious cycle of feeling incompetent and apathetic and
allowing others to treat you poorly, all of which confirms your low
opinion of yourself.
Instead, give your
self-esteem a boost each day. YOU deserve to be appreciated by
YOU.
If you continue to feel low,
incompetent, lethargic, or experience feelings of self-dislike,
consider professional intervention. Call Louann at Counseling
Connection for a free consultation:
303-721-0005.
