Let me guess... the reason you picked up this handout probably has to do with your desire to improve your self-esteem. That's good. You'd be amazed at how many people really think badly about themselves. Some are down on themselves all the time, while others think negatively only on occasion.

Self-esteem, or what you think about your worth, greatly influences how you conduct your life. People with a positive sense of themselves may seek promotions or interpret "constructive criticism'. from supervisors as helpful hints. They are willing to try new things, enjoy being friendly, and avoid overpersonalizing mishaps. They recognize that their worth is not solely a function of external factors, such as what others think of them, their occupations, their appearance, or their material possessions. Those with low self-esteem, on the other hand, crumble when they make an error. They may avoid new challenges, believe they don't deserve things, or shy away from meeting new people. Oversensitivity results in their finding fault in themselves.


Take this inventory to gauge how you see yourself. It is not a scientific psychological instrument, but it may reveal some attitudes and behaviors you may wish to change. Pay attention to how closely each of the statements describes you.


There is no time like the present to begin the project. Go ahead and practice the following suggestions. They will feel awkward at first, but like any habit (low self-esteem is like a habit of always thinking negatively about yourself), self-esteem can be modified with practice, patience, and positive reinforcement.


Let's face it ... the whole world is not out to do you in. Many things happen to you and around you that really have nothing to do with you personally. Recognize that it may be someone else's doing or that no one is really to blame. Also, don't let criticism from others get to you. Be mindful that it's your behavior that may be evaluated, but not who you are as a person.


You may be accustomed to labeling your personality traits as defects. when you catch yourself saying, I'm such a jerk" or using other self-labels, tell yourself, stop! Remember, self put-downs don't help; they only make you feel worse. Just because you behaved in a particular way, your behavior does not define who you are as a whole person. Let go of the past You can punish your-self indefinitely for things you "could have" or "should have" done. Remember, "hindsight sees 20-20." Since you cannot precisely forecast the future, you're bound to make errors. By understanding this, you can practice forgiving others and yourself for old mistakes and embarrassments. Don't wallow in feelings of guilt, resentment, and shame. They are ineffective motivators for growth. Instead, focus on the present and develop realistic plans for the future.


No one likes to hear endless complaints. Besides, repetitious complaining conditions you to see the world negatively. If you have a legitimate gripe, see if there's something constructive you can do to correct it. If there's really nothing you can do, accept it as one of life's quirks and shake it off.


Recognize your strengths. Make a list of your positive qualities, and add to the list every few days. Give yourself credit even for the smallest things. At the end of each day, review your accomplishments. Don't discount your successes by magnifying your mishaps. If you're going to think about errors, concentrate on what you have learned and how you can improve things for the future. Learn to accept compliments with a smile, say "thank you," and don't undo them by explaining why you did something.


Use personal "pep talks" about what you can do and what is possible. To be your own cheerleader, try repeating to yourself, "I know I can do it" and "I have what it takes to handle things." Here's something bold to try. Face yourself in the mirror and say out loud, "I'm a worthwhile per-son. Also, write down a positive thought, for example, "I have a wonderful smile," and stick it on your door, refrigerator, or car dashboard.


(Not to be confused with selfishness.) Enjoy the specialness of being alone (which is quite different from loneliness). Pamper yourself without guilt. Take some time for a quiet stroll, listen to music, watch a sunset, or do whatever activity that is self-nurturing.


Throughout the day, take "mini-breaks." Sit down and get comfortable. Slowly take a deep breath, hold it, and then exhale very slowly. At the same time, let your shoulder muscles droop, smile, and quietly say to yourself, "I am r-e-l-a-x-e-d."


Humor and laughter have been shown to have powerful effects on our physical as well as psychological functioning. Learn to chuckle at yourself and your actions. See the humor in your predicaments. Take the wind out of the serious sail of life by having a good time with it. The smile that results will help you feel good about who you are.


Be sure to make eye contact with people. Say good morning to co-workers, neighbors, and even those you don't know well. And smile more - it will help you and others feel good. Let people know you like spending time with them. Ask them how they're doing and what they're into. Share your ideas and experiences. Remember to speak in a clear voice.


Cast self-consciousness aside. Don't be overly cautious. Try new things and explore opportunities. Discover new interests. Find out what you truly like and enjoy. You'll discover that there's a very interesting person inside you.

To enhance your self-esteem further, you may wish to read Self-Esteem by Dr. Matthew McKay and Patrick Fanning, published in 1987 by New Harbinger Publications, 5674 Shattuck Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609; Toward a State of Esteem, the final report of the California Task Force to Promote Self-Esteem and Personal and Social Responsibility, published in 1990, and available from the Bureau of Publications, California State Department of Education, P.O. Box 271, Sacramento, CA 95802-0271; and Feeling Good About Yourself, an audiocassette tape featuring Dr. David Burns, published in 1983 by Psychology Today Tapes, Box 059073, Brooklyn, NY 11205-9061.

Should you wish to consult a professional counselor about your self-esteem, contact the local office of your state's psychological association or the psychology department or psychological services center of a nearby university for a referral.

This handout was prepared by Kent T. Yamauchi, Ph.D. Reproduced from: Innovations in Clinical Practice: A Source Book (Vol. 9) pp. 427-429, by L. VandeCreek and T.L.Jackson (Eds.), Sarasota, FL: Professional Resource Press. Copyright © 1999 by the Professional Resource Exchange, Inc., P.O. Box 15560, Sarasota, FL 34277-1560.