Self-Esteem Is More Than Confidence

Self-esteem and confidence are not the same things. Confidence is the belief in yourself that you can meet life's challenges and take necessary action to succeed.

Self-esteem requires more. It is how you value your own worth. It is the opinion you hold about yourselves.

A person with high self-esteem

• hold a positive attitude of themselves
• view themselves as worthy and respectful
• believe they possess good qualities
• and are generally satisfied with themselves.

Low self-esteem often develops in childhood and usually stays with us into our adulthood. Negative statements, such as "You're not good enough", may come from the failure to live up to others' expectations and, most importantly, your own.

Build self-esteem, not just confidence. Yet, it is not easy. Start with self-compassion. When your critical inner voice kicks in, imagine this voice directed towards a dear friend. What will you say to your friend in distress? Will you criticise? Or show kindness, encouragement and care?

Now, redirect these words of kindness to yourself. Keep doing this, and you will see your self-esteem grow.