Self-Esteem
Self-esteem is a fundamental aspect of your self-concept, an overall evaluation of yourself or an attitude towards yourself that can be positive or negative but rarely ambivalent. It is a feeling of self-worth that can impact your psychological well-being. We must feel good about ourselves for good mental well-being (Yutao, 2023). A positive outlook on life greatly boosts our psychological state and acts as a motivator and cheerleader for our hopes and dreams. When we have belief in ourselves and faith that we are being our best selves, we thrive. Trusting in your strengths, curiosity and courage with an optimistic outlook will give you self-confidence and self-esteem second to none.
Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself. I am sure you have heard that said somewhere by someone you know. It is easy to think it is another buzz saying that doesn’t mean much. However, this buzz saying is a keeper. Self-compassion is your ability to give yourself a break when things don’t go exactly to plan. It is a way to put the brakes on and give yourself a chance to look at things with different eyes. Perhaps, seek help from a friend, family, doctor or even a stranger on a bus. Ask-a-friend is not just for game shows. Self-compassion does not mean ‘give up’ but rather, take that ‘I can’t do it’ attitude and make it into a ‘how can I do this’ attitude.
Self-Acceptance
You are a wonderful person, just as you are. Self-acceptance is key to mental well-being and the relief of anxiety. However, that is not an excuse for lowering expectations of yourself. Accepting and being proud of your strengths and knowing your weaknesses is true self-acceptance. Suppose you get caught in a spiral of only knowing your weaknesses. In that case, your self-esteem will take a hit, and you will forget to be kind to yourself. Remember your strengths daily, and don’t be afraid to let other people know them too. Forget tall poppy syndrome and be a beaming sunflower instead.
Self-Actualisation
All of these fundamental aspects of your self-concept come together in self-actualisation. Self-actualised people are those who have positive self-esteem and are doing all that they are capable of (Cherry, 2023). They understand their strengths and their weaknesses and are able to allow themselves time out when they need it. Self-actualisation is the point at which a person is being their best self, achieving her or his potential and still looking ahead to possibilities.
According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs, there are three core characteristics of Self-Actualisation:
- Significance
- Fulfilment
- Spirituality
Read more here.
Are you ready to learn self-compassion?
Is there something that you think needs fresh eyes so that you can move forward?
Is it time to ask-a-friend?
Can you tell me ten strengths of yours?
