Self-esteem
“Talk to yourself like you would to someone you love.” ― Brené Brown.
Self-esteem is different than self-confidence, but a low self-esteem can affect one’s confidence. You can also have high self-esteem but a very low self-confidence. When we refer to self-esteem, we refer to the personal belief on how we feel about self. For example, you strongly believe you are worthy of love, kindness, respect, and many more. Let's assume you are not being skilful enough (just yet) to fly a plane. Would that make you less worthy of love, kindness and respect? The answer is “no” - that is a good level of self-esteem.
There are many people who have learnt they are not good enough, they have learnt to be highly critical and disrespectful of themselves. Once they have started to believe what other people or society might have told them about themselves, intentionally or not, some people will start repeating to themselves the negative beliefs until they embrace the thought of having no value as individuals. And as you know, repetition makes you better, but in this situation it is not very beneficial.
Many people mistake having a high self-esteem with being arrogant, but it matters how you are delivering the message about yourself to the external world. A way to show you have high self-esteem is to be gentle, supportive and diplomatic.
How to increase your self-esteem:
Use positive affirmations about yourself
Take care of your body and mind
Spend time with supportive people
Read, study, explore
Change your mindset if necessary
Acknowledge your accomplishments
Write a gratitude journal
Follow your passions, your hobbies
Practice mindfulness