"THE 6 PILLARS OF SELF-ESTEEM: Why It Is Not How You Feel, But What You Think You're Capable Of".
Self-esteem is not just about feeling good; it is rooted in a deeper understanding of our capabilities and the confidence to act on them. Nathaniel Branden, a pioneering psychologist, introduced the concept of the Six Pillars of Self-Esteem, which are essential practices for achieving a strong sense of self-worth and confidence.
1. The Practice of Living Consciously
Living consciously means being aware of your thoughts, actions, and emotions. It's about recognizing reality for what it is, without denial or distortion. People with high self-esteem are fully engaged with the present moment and make conscious decisions that align with their values.
2. The Practice of Self-Acceptance
Self-acceptance is the foundation of self-esteem. It means embracing who you are, with both strengths and weaknesses, without self-judgment. When you accept yourself, you stop battling against your own nature and begin to build on what you have.
3. The Practice of Self-Responsibility
Taking responsibility for your actions and life choices is crucial. Self-responsibility means understanding that you are the author of your life, and your decisions shape your reality. This empowers you to make proactive changes instead of waiting for others to change your circumstances.
4. The Practice of Self-Assertiveness
Self-assertiveness is about expressing your thoughts, feelings, and needs with confidence. It means standing up for your rights while respecting the rights of others. This pillar helps you to communicate your boundaries clearly and ensures that your voice is heard.
5. The Practice of Living Purposefully
Living purposefully involves setting goals and working consistently to achieve them. It is the proactive pursuit of meaningful objectives that align with your values. People with strong self-esteem are driven by purpose and take deliberate actions toward their ambitions.
6. The Practice of Personal Integrity
Integrity is the integration of your ideals, convictions, standards, and behavior. When your actions are in line with your beliefs, you experience self-respect and confidence. Integrity reinforces trust in oneself, which is essential for high self-esteem.
Why It Is Not How You Feel But What You Think You’re Capable Of
Self-esteem is often misunderstood as merely feeling good about oneself. In reality, it is grounded in the belief that you are capable of handling life’s challenges. Confidence comes from knowing you have the skills, resilience, and strength to face difficulties—not just from feeling good temporarily.
People who have genuine self-esteem believe in their capabilities even when things are tough. They understand that setbacks are part of growth, not reflections of their worth. This mindset shift from mere feelings to beliefs in one’s capabilities is what truly elevates self-esteem.
Conclusion
The 6 Pillars of Self-Esteem are not just abstract concepts; they are daily practices that build confidence, resilience, and purpose. True self-esteem is not just about feeling good but knowing you are capable of achieving your goals and handling whatever life throws your way. By practicing these six principles, you can transform your self-perception and live a life driven by confidence and purpose.
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