Boosting Self-Esteem
 (52 KB)
 Feeling
good about yourself is an important part of VITALITY. Self-esteem is based
on how you see your abilities and your worth as a person. People with
low self-esteem are often shy, anxious, and depressed. They are negative
about themselves and their abilities. Because they don't feel worthwhile,
they are more likely to do things that are not good for their health,
such as going on starvation diets and smoking. People with high self-esteem
tend to be secure and confident. They see themselves and their abilities
positively. Because they know it is important to take care of themselves,
they are more likely to eat well and to stay active. Comparing yourself
to the perfect men and women you see on television and in magazines and
movies is hard on your self-esteem. We all know these images. Ideal women
handle their jobs, homes, and kids with ease, andcontinue to be thin,
well-dressed and beautiful. Ideal men are big, strong and successful in
life. When we compare ourselves to these "perfect" people, we
forget how little appearance really matters in life. We may also believe
that to be perfect we have to suffer - to go without enough food or rest
or exercise. Then, when we do not develop the perfect body, we think we
have failed and our self-esteem becomes even lower.
Self-Esteem Boosters
How can you avoid the "ideal image trap" and boost your own
self-esteem, as well as the self-esteem of those you care about?
Here are some suggestions:
- Be positive about yourself and accept compliments that point out
your strengths and abilities.
- Be realistic about what you can do. Trying to be perfect and comparing
yourself with other people can damage your self-esteem.
- Recognize that everyone makes mistakes. When you make a mistake, do
not put yourself down. You can learn from your mistakes.
- Listen carefully to others, without judging.
- Respect people's differences. Recognize their strengths and
accomplishments. Acknowledge the things others do that help your family,
your workplace and your community.
- Support and encourage other people's efforts to learn new things.
- Give people in your family unconditional love. For example, when a
child does something wrong, make it clear that you dislike the behaviour,
but you still love the child.
- Spend time with people who make you feel good. Do things that make
you feel worthwhile.
Enjoy eating well, being active and feeling
good about yourself.
That's VITALITY
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