Let me challenge the view that self esteem is important.
An article in the journal of the American Psychological Association written by a Self Esteem Task Force suggested that self esteem may not be as important as we think. It can hinder people from receiving constructive feedback and can lead to arrogance. The research suggests that people with low self esteem actually feel worse after repeating positive self statements such as ‘I am a lovable person’.
This information is available in Russ Harris’ new book called ‘The Confidence Trap’.
It seems a better route is self acceptance. Just accept rather than try to change. Accept your strengths and weakness before trying to change them. Accept that your view is merely a thought. Imagine that your doctor called and wanted to see you. Your thoughts could frighten you. You have merely been asked to see your doctor.
Isn’t it interesting that thoughts can be so powerful once you engage with them? An alternative is to recognise them as thoughts and take away their power… unless they are useful or worth engaging.
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