Self-esteem is also called self-worth, self-confidence, or self-respect. Basically, self-esteem is what you think and feel about who you are, as an individual. Everyone is unique and everyone has a different attitude toward themselves. But you can develop a greater positive attitude toward yourself, all the time, no matter what.

Lots of people suffer from low self confidence and low self esteem. For the most part, this lack of self esteem was literally built during childhood. You need to recover from that and build your self esteem in order to succeed in life. Remember, the only one who can make you excel is you and no one else. The same goes for self esteem.

The only person who can build up-or consequentially tear down-your self esteem is you. Although other individuals may aide the process, the end decision is yours.

People have low esteem for a variety of reasons. Some individuals suffer from poor body image and focus on all the negative traits of their physical appearance. Others have emotional issues that have caused their self esteem to drop or feel themselves unworthy of any praise.

For whatever reasons your self esteem may falter, the key to building it up again is to find the root of the problem.

Think of self esteem like a house, if you build a stunning house on a poor foundation, the entire structure will crumble.

However, if you take steps to ensure the foundation is strong and capable of holding anything, the process may be slow, but your self esteem will be built soundly.

A lot of people look, everyday, for solutions to their problems, especially when it comes to self-esteem. These solutions can be found in books, tapes, seminars for example. The number of available options on the market is phenomenal, and you are sure to find one on a topic that deals with your specific issues. Check out your local library or book store and explore their "self help" section for a book that you may find helpful.

Answers can be found in books. Not all of them of course. But it always helpful to know others are in your same boat and you are certainly not alone. Additionally, you may wish to seek professional help in your quest to boost your self esteem.

Often, speaking with a qualified individual can help you determine the root of your problem and the necessary path you should take for the rebuilding process. Perhaps your problems dates back to childhood, or maybe it has recently developed. Whatever the case,a professional will be able to best determine your next step.

A main factor in self esteem is negativity. Negative thoughts can pervade your confidence and crumble your self esteem. If you find yourself surrounded by negative people or in a negative situation, try to best remedy the problem.

Often, individuals in a abusive relationship have their self esteem shattered when a supposed loved one constantly berates them and questions their worth. Similarly, a negative workplace environment can lower your self esteem with colleagues or bosses finding fault with your work. Maybe you have a friend who is consistently negative with all surrounding him or her.

Whatever the source, distancing yourself from the negativity will help you regain your self esteem. Strive to surround yourself with positive people. If you are going through a rough time in your personal life, you may wish to join a support group.

Similarly, there are support groups available for individuals with self image issues. These groups will allow you to meet other individuals like yourself and provide a forum for you to sound your hopes and achievements.

However you choose to begin building your self esteem, do so today! Be thorough and consistent with the process and be aware it may take a while. You should not become impatient or despondent if you find your self esteem slipping. Remember, you are an important and worthy person and should treat yourself as such.