Define self-esteem, and list six recommendations for building self-esteem

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Self-esteem refers to how we feel about ourselves. The humanistic psychologists believe that high self-esteem was essential for good psychological functioning. One way to build self-esteem is to develop skills. Through training or studying or practice, people can develop many types of skills. Second, it is important to set realistic, achievable goals. Goals that are impossible to meet can lead to despair, but goals that are too easy do not provide enough of a challenge. Third, enhance your self-efficacy expectations through successes. Start by choosing small, clear goals that are consistent with your abilities and interests. As you meet goals, you may find it easier to meet even more challenging goals. Fourth, since self-esteem is bolstered by having a sense of direction or meaning in life, find a source of meaning. People find many ways in which to do this—spirituality, ethnic pride, family, work, or community, for example. Fifth, challenge expectations that you must be perfect. Finally, accept that you may not always receive approval from others.