Healthy Self Esteem & Self Compassion
- Felicity Jefferson
- July 15, 2019
Most people have heard of ‘self-esteem’ and believe it is good to
have high self-esteem.
However, most people may not be aware that there are different types of self-esteem and some are more helpful than others.
Researchers have identified that individuals may have high self-esteem,
but if it is strongly tied to their circumstances then their sense of self-
worth is vulnerable to collapsing if those circumstances change. An
example would be a star football player who breaks their leg or when we
experience rejection. This can lead to depression and low mood. Another
effect of having this type of self-esteem – one that is based overly on your
success and achievements- is that it can drive anxiety, perfectionism,
overworking and burnout as we struggle to achieve a sense of worthiness.
So what can we do about it? Thankfully researchers have identified
healthier ways to develop high self-esteem and self-worth that is stable in
the face of life’s challenges. Through my own research I strongly feel that
the concept of ‘Self-Compassion’ provides a lovely road map for developing
this healthy version of self-esteem.
Self-compassion is the ability to meet ourselves with kindness,
caring and acceptance no matter what life throws at us. Through building
our self-compassion, we develop a sense of value and worthiness
irrespective of our achievements. Having high self-compassion liberates us
and provides us with a strong sense of self, and is the foundation for living
an empowered life.
If you would like to learn more about self-compassion and its role in
developing high healthy self-esteem book an appointment with me today.