A Positive Image: Self-esteem

 

"Self" -- That's easy. That's you!

"Esteem" -- This word is a bit trickier. It is not a word that most teens use on a daily basis. Not even a weekly basis. The dictionary, defines the word as "to hold in high regard" which means "to really like a lot." For example, you really like your best friend, you really like your favorite teacher, or you really like your parents. You get the picture. These are people you trust, respect and enjoy spending time with. 
What is self-esteem?
Why is it important?
How do you get it?
Think for yourself!
More Questions and Answers


 

 

 
What is self-esteem?

 

Self-esteem means you really like yourself, both inside and out. It refers both to how you look and what you believe in. This is also called "positive" or "high" self-esteem.

Sometimes it's easy to like who you are. You feel great when you pass a test, score a winning touchdown, or tell a funny joke that everyone laughs at. But how do you feel about yourself when you just said something stupid or fumbled the football? You sometimes feel dumb or left out of the action. You start wishing you were someone else or that you could change how you look. You think you aren't good in school, on the team or part of the cool crowd. This is "low" or "negative" self-esteem.

We sometimes let others tell us how to feel about yourself. From the day you were born, your parents, and later your teachers and friends, have been influencing your decisions. TV shows and music videos tell you what to wear and how to look. Music and magazines tell you how to feel and how to act.The good news is you can learn to like yourself or have positive self-esteem. You are the one in control; you can make the difference.