Just what is self esteem, and how is it managed? Generally speaking, self esteem is typically considered the way in which a person sees, or values himself, but accepting and respecting this image also comes into play. Self esteem is very important since it determines how we interact with other persons. People with low, or no, self esteem typically do not have any self confidence, nor any faith in themselves, in any manner.



People must be able to engage in introspection and be aware of what they already know about their self esteem, and for this it is crucial to have a firm understanding of what self esteem is. Understanding self esteem can help one to have it, and make it work to one's advantage.

Self esteem helps us keep going and helps us to cope with the daily challenges we are forced to deal with. One's self confidence moulds who we are, how we deal with obstacles and how we handle decision making. In our journey through life, this can be our biggest asset

When we have good self esteem we are more decisive and convey confidence. This gives us the power to deal with others, and to help us take on new experiences and the risks that may come with them. Self esteem can be simply put as how we push ourselves forward in life. A high level of self esteem can be misconstrued by others as arrogance and over confidence.

Our behaviours and reactions to not only other people we come into contact with, but also ourselves, are affected by our self esteem. Whether we succeed or fail could ultimately depend on it. Self esteem is important because it helps us go through life confidently and overcome obstacles and challenges.

What factors contribute to self esteem?

The support and assurance of persons dear to us, and their confidence in us, are very relevant in our nurturing of self esteem. When we were still young, the support and assurance of our family and those who are dear to us would build up our self confidence as we grow old. Adults with low self esteem may find that they can benefit by lending and ear or a shoulder to cry on to other family members, helping others with their troubles and encouraging them to share their emotions.

Children and adolescents may not know or understand what self esteem is but they can feel it just as adults do. It can be a struggle for adults who have low levels of self esteem to come to terms with it, even if they already understand it. Those with low self esteem should always be encouraged and led to help build their self esteem and become more self-confident in all that they do.