Influences on Attitude and Behaviors: Part 2

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, self-esteem is defined as the confidence and satisfaction we have with ourselves. Self-concept, which is related to self-esteem, is the mental image we have of ourselves. The two are directly related.

People can have positive or negative self-esteem, which can be affected by a number of things in the world around us. Someone with positive self-esteem will be more confident, feeling prepared and qualified to take on new challenges. Positive, or high, self-esteem is associated with a greater feeling of happiness and a greater sense of self-worth. If you have high self-esteem, you will know, believe, and feel that you are worthy of respect and happiness.

Everyone is worthy of respect and happiness. Unfortunately, not everyone feels that way all the time, and sometimes we can experience low self-esteem. Negative, or low, self-esteem can lead to feelings of self-doubt, a lack of confidence, anxiety, depression, and a negative outlook. People with low self-esteem generally don’t take on new challenges because they feel as if they don’t deserve respect or to be happy, and they also don’t believe in their own abilities. But this is simply not true. Everyone deserves to be safe, happy, and respected.