The self esteem definition represents an accepted point of view that appoints a feeling as the indicator of how much regard we have for our "self". This feeling would be the result of a self-evaluation and implies measurement.
We often include the words "low" or "high" when referring to self-esteem for this reason.
The American Heritage Dictionary's self-esteem definition is "pride in oneself". However the definition of "pride" varies. It can mean self-respect; taking pleasure or satisfaction in one's work; achievements or possessions and conceit.
Because the definition of "pride" varies and is fundamentally an emotion, maintaining consistency in self-esteem becomes difficult.
Our experience demonstrates the instability of our emotions. We can feel proud of our "self" one moment, lose that feeling and then have to look for ways to get it back.
Perhaps over time a general lack of regard for our "self" settles in and we rarely feel proud.
In order to have high self-esteem, according to the self esteem definition, we would need to keep feeling "proud" of our "self" continuously. This sets up a requirement to always see our "self" in a positive light.
Many books address what can be done to improve or build self-esteem.
However, the problem of inconsistency inherent in the self-esteem definition remains.
How can we continuously see our "self" positively so we can feel more confident and appreciate our "self"?
From a spiritual perspective, there is a way to understand our "self" that can help us do this. It takes us beyond the self-esteem definition.
We can come not only to see our "self" in a positive light, but move beyond it by ultimately identifying with the positive Light that is within us always. By seeing ourselves as the Light, we recognize our consistent, unchanging and inherent self-worth.
If you are looking to build your self-esteem, you are accepting that it is unstable. Building anything requires work, more to sustain it and there is no certainty that it won't be torn down.
We say, "His self-esteem took a hit when he was passed up for the promotion." Or, "She lost her self-esteem when her partner left her."
If self-worth is a problem for you, it is due to the inconsistency problem.
You may say, "It's not possible to feel good about my "self" in all places and times."
But what if it is possible? The book "Beyond Self-esteem: Discovering Your Boundless Self-worth" shows you the possibility!
It looks at how we are defining our "self" to make variability in self-esteem possible.
Important ideas are explained to help you connect to your unchanging and unquestionable value.
For more information on how this can be done visit: www.healing-with-eft.com or buy the book at Amazon.com. |
