Improving healthy self-esteem and quality of life
The term self-esteem refers to how a person regards themself. A healthy or high self-esteem results in confidence to pursue goals, develop rewarding relationships, and facilitates an overall higher life satisfaction.
An unhealthy or low self-esteem can lead to feelings of stagnation, abusive or unfulfilling relationships, and a lack of motivation to pursue one’s full potential. Low self-esteem can be the result of negative feedback from parents, friends, coworkers, bosses, teachers, or anyone else in a position of authority or trust.
An inflated sense of self-esteem can lead to patterns of manipulation, entitlement, arrogance, and difficulties in work and relationships. Significant inflation may be diagnosed as narcissism.
Understanding that no person is inherently more or less worthy than another person is key to developing a healthy sense of self-esteem. Accepting the differences among all people and resisting the temptation to compare oneself to others is also helpful.
