Self-Esteem Motto: \"To Love Oneself

Self-Esteem

Motto: "To love oneself is the beginning of a life-long romance" (Oscar Wilde).

Some have too much, others too little of it. Life tests it all the time. There is an impressive amount of literature being written and read on this particular topic. Great minds of different generations have formulated great quotes trying to pinpoint what it means and how one can improve it. In reality, self-esteem is a delicate issue that relies on internal factors regarding one's personal experience, family background and even character. In fact, self-esteem, also referred to as self-worth or self-confidence, consists of the image the individual has of himself which in turn, determines how well he/she interacts with the surroundings and ultimately, how successful his/her relationships are, irrespective of their nature, i.e. personal or professional.

Self-esteem is almost always reflected on the outside of the individual. One's image of self acts as a mirror towards the outside and greatly affects one's capacity to relate to others and to evolve especially on the emotional level. In fact, self-respect is the factor that influences how well we relate to others, as well as how well we are able to get our message across, and to make ourselves seen and heard. Frequently self-esteem is taught at home in the sense that family background is crucial to the development of the self, and consequently, to the image of self. Parents play an important part in helping build a healthy image of self for their children; children rely on the support of their parents to learn who they are, to identify their needs and expectations which will eventually help them set their goals and build their system of values as young adults.

Self-esteem is neither easily built nor easily destroyed once it is strong. In fact, it is easier to imagine it as a building whose foundation is the very core of the individual. Traumatizing personal experience, such as loss, grief, pain, depression, illness etc. can alter self-esteem but it is precisely this core of the individual, i.e. his capacity to justly value and position himself correctly in society that helps him advance and evolve. Everyone needs something to rely on, and in many cases, this landmark is precisely the self, constantly changing, but always the same. Eleanor Roosevelt once said that "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." It is very important to know and understand oneself. Actually, to be able to understand and positively relate to others, it is absolutely important to know who you are and what your values are. This, I think, is what Eleanor Roosevelt refers to. Her message is very clear and simple which makes it extremely effective. No one can berate or belittle you unless you allow them.