Self Esteem - Do You have It?
Michalis "BIG Mike" Kotzakolios
Kotzakoliou, SSA

It is important to have self esteem. We’ve all heard this statement, and yet while most of us will affirm the importance of this idea, there are many people who do not value this idea enough to live it. To do so, we must first truly understand it: what is self esteem?

Self esteem means, in part, treating yourself as you wish others to treat you, and likewise to treat yourself as well as you treat others. This second statement may seem a bit queer, even daft, but consider the implications. Often we treat others with great respect and yet of ourselves we say negative statements –both aloud to ourselves and to others, as well as in our thoughts.

With this, the first step to self esteem is removal of all negative programming. Yes, programming. This word, while normally associated with computers is true also for our minds as our brains are greater than any supercomputer that exists or that will come into existence anytime in the next twenty-five years. Thus, no more statements like “I’m stupid, I’m a schlep, and I’m no good at that /at anything.” None of these statements will do you any good. Besides, when said enough times, they are believed and negatively followed through on, even if only subconsciously.

The same can be said of positive affirmations. By thinking them, and then saying them aloud on a regular basis, you will program yourself for success. Come up with a mantra or saying that, whether original or something you read or heard somewhere, fits you. It might rhyme, making it all the better to remember or hear said aloud, but just make it true. Make it believable to yourself, and then do believe it.

The next step in self esteem is actualization. Try this exercise. Go to the mirror and look at your image. Try to find at least three characteristics about your body that are impressive –and don’t say that you have no interesting aspects about yourself. Everyone has good facets to their physicality and personality. This is the next step: personality. Here we have even more control. While there are things that we can do for our bodies and faces to improve them by societal standards, such as working out regularly, eating right, and wearing makeup, it is in the realm of personality that we are a tabla raza, that is, and empty slate with nothing but possibility.

Now tell yourself, as you look into the mirror, that you love yourself. Sound easy? There are many people who cannot do this. It takes some people months, even years to accomplish such a feat. They have no self esteem.

Now to improve upon that self esteem. There are numerous ways to do this in addition to those already mentioned. One excellent way is physical exercise. Exercise will help you in numerous ways. First, you look and feel better. Your hormones and endorphins will begin pumping throughout your body and make you feel absolutely euphoric at times when you exercise properly and frequently.

Further, after only a few weeks, others will begin to notice that your body is taking on a different shape, that you’re happier and more confident, and even more energetic, and they will say so, or treat you with more respect and awe than in the past. From here, you’ve got your start, and it’s a good one. Go with the momentum, and believe in yourself!