HOW TO BUILD SELF ESTEEM
HOW TO BUILD SELF ESTEEM – THE SIX PILLARS OF SELF-ESTEEM
BY NATHANIEL BRANDEN
How to Build Self-Esteem – The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem
Building self-esteem is a journey that involves understanding and nurturing various aspects of oneself. Nathaniel Branden, a renowned psychologist, introduced the concept of the "Six Pillars of Self-Esteem," which provides a comprehensive framework for developing a healthy sense of self-worth. Let's explore these pillars and how they can help you build self-esteem.
1. The Practice of Living Consciously
Living consciously means being present and aware of your actions, thoughts, and feelings. It involves:
Mindfulness: Paying full attention to your experiences in the present moment.
Self-awareness: Understanding your strengths, weaknesses, values, and beliefs.
Purposeful action: Making choices that align with your goals and values.
By practicing living consciously, you become more attuned to your needs and desires, which enhances self-esteem.
2. The Practice of Self-Acceptance
Self-acceptance is about embracing who you are without judgment. It involves:
Acknowledging your reality: Accepting your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
Forgiving yourself: Letting go of self-criticism and guilt over past mistakes.
Compassion: Treating yourself with kindness and understanding.
When you accept yourself fully, you create a solid foundation for self-esteem to flourish.
3. The Practice of Self-Responsibility
Taking responsibility for your actions and choices is crucial for building self-esteem. It entails:
Owning your decisions: Acknowledging that you are the author of your life.
Accountability: Being answerable for the outcomes of your actions.
Proactivity: Taking initiative to create the life you want.
Self-responsibility empowers you and boosts self-esteem, as you realize your ability to influence your own destiny.
4. The Practice of Self-Assertiveness
Self-assertiveness is the ability to express your thoughts, feelings, and needs confidently and respectfully. Key aspects include:
Clear communication: Articulating your desires and boundaries effectively.
Standing up for yourself: Defending your rights while respecting others.
Authenticity: Being true to yourself in interactions with others.
By practicing self-assertiveness, you reinforce your sense of self-worth and respect.
5. The Practice of Living Purposefully
Living purposefully means setting and pursuing meaningful goals. This involves:
Setting clear objectives: Defining what you want to achieve.
Planning and action: Developing strategies and taking steps toward your goals.
Perseverance: Persisting in the face of challenges.
Having a sense of purpose provides direction and motivation, which are vital for self-esteem.
6. The Practice of Personal Integrity
Personal integrity involves aligning your behavior with your values and principles. It includes:
Honesty: Being truthful with yourself and others.
Consistency: Ensuring your actions match your beliefs.
Moral courage: Upholding your values, even when it is difficult.
Living with integrity fosters self-respect and strengthens self-esteem, as you trust yourself to do what is right.
By integrating these six pillars into your life, you can build a resilient and healthy self-esteem that supports personal growth and well-being. Remember, the journey to self-esteem is a continuous process that requires patience and dedication.
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