Overcoming Low Self Esteem

Ideas on Overcoming Low Self Esteem

Before considering methods for overcoming low self esteem it is necessary to understand what is esteem and what is self and the connection between the two.

Once this connection is established then it becomes clearer how low self esteem is formed and how it may be overcome.

What precisely is esteem?

The most common definitions are that esteem is (a) the condition of being honored (esteemed or respected or well regarded) (b) a feeling of delighted approval and liking and (c) an attitude of admiration.

What is self?

Self is who you think you are.

Your belief as to who you are is the accumulation and internalization of the influences of the external world upon you since birth.

At birth you are an open canvas upon which the external world paints.

Unfortunately the majority of the external world that comprises, amongst others, your parents siblings religion and society are not good artists.

They do not paint a true picture of who you are and the distorted picture becomes who you think you are and the judgement of others is what you see in your self portrait… A painting that is not well regarded approved or admired.

What is your true self.

Your true self is and has always been that empty canvas waiting for you to paint your own unique and perfect picture.

There has never been and will never be another you.Delight and admire this unique manifestation of life that is you.

Ways of creating your real self portrait and overcoming low self esteem.

Do not live your life in the minds of other people or what they may think about you.Cultivate the habit of being aware of your thoughts when they arise in such circumstances. Realise that these are not true thoughts about who you are but the judgment of others that you have internalized and taken as your own. As to how others may judge you remember that those that mind do not matter and those that matter do not mind!
Become a witness to your thoughts. Develop the habit of witnessing those thoughts that are negative to your self esteem.See them for what they are untrue. Do not witness in a judgmental way -just an inner aha! when you see where they really came from.
Love yourself. Perhaps the hardest part of overcoming low self esteem!How many people can look into a mirror at their own reflection and truly say " I love you" but have no difficulty in saying this to a loved one? It is not about a narcissistic self love but about loving your own humanity.With low self esteem to love yourself is a learning process. A starting point is at the end of each day to write down one or more things that you did that day that was a were an expression of your humanity. It may have been a small act of kindness to another, a kind thought or a smile. It can be any little thing that came from the heart. Make a habit of doing this every day for two months and you will be surprised how large your list will be. Then realize that you are indeed a wonderful unique expression of humanity and love and honor yourself for this. Stand in your own authority. We live in a world that has become more shallow and pursues the celebrity culture.The external pressures exerted by the media to be this or to be that are continual and lead to a crisis of lack of depth in humanity. By overcoming low self esteem and standing in the authority of who you truly and uniquely are you have the opportunity to add a deep and truly individual note to the Orchestra of Life.

For more information tips and videos on self esteem self confidence and personal development please visit Martins website http://www.selfesteem4u.com.

Author: Martin Godden

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martin_Godden

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