It’s been said that when our self-esteem is high, problems simply roll off our backs. When self-esteem is low, we are a “bulls-eye target” for stress. Self-esteem has many definitions, mostly regarding how we value ourselves. Those who research the many aspects of self-esteem include these factors: Mentors (people whom we look up to), Uniqueness (things that we feel make us special and unique), Empowerment (things we feel we have control of), Social Support (friends and family) and Calculated Risk Taking. As a rule, people tend to focus on what they feel are their negative aspects rather than those things they having going for them. While this ego-bashing behavior is normal (on occasion) its neither normal nor healthy on a regular basis and only lays the groundwork for a black cloud of stress over your head. Part of boosting your self-esteem requires to put your eggs (talents) in many baskets so if/when you have a bad day, you don’t have a scrambled mess. Where there is stress, there is ego right behind it, usually exaggerating the negative. Boosting self-esteem to combat stress begins with the practice of “domesticating the ego” so you don’t have poop all over the place. Remember… you are not just your job, your paycheck or your mortgage payment. Like a diamond, you are a multi-faceted human being.
• Stress Tip for the Day:
Make a list of 10 things that make you feel unique and special. Start with the physical aspects but then move into the less tangible but very important inner resources (e.g. sense of humor, sense of adventure, etc.). If you are having a hard time coming up with ten, ask a few friends to contribute to your list. Then post the list where you can see it every day… to remind you of your highest potential.
• Links Worth Noting:
Speaking of Self-Esteem, this link came to me today and I am so delighted to share it with you.
This is a reminder NOT to judge a book by its cover, nor a person by their looks. We are all so talented is so many ways. In a world were we seem to worship people for their looks (with facelifts and breast enlargements, etc), this woman is nothing less than a breath of fresh air. Look at the smile on Simon’s face as she is singing. UNREAL! This made my day, and I hope it makes your too!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxPZh4AnWyk&feature=related
• Photo of the Day:
This is a photo I took up in Rocky Mountain National Park of a high self-esteem moment. Enjoy!
• Quote for the Day:
“Be Yourself! Everybody else is taken!”
—Anonymous
Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net
© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.
