The problem with self-esteem is just how difficult it is to define. Definitions for this elusive quality range from valuing the self right through to having the ability to love and be loved. Regardless of where your view on the spectrum of self-esteem lies, there can be no doubt that it is a quality which we all, as human beings, want to own.

Self-esteem makes us more comfortable with ourselves as people. It gives us the clarity of mind to make confident judgements, trusting ourselves to make the right decisions at the right time. It enables us to step out with pride, knowing that we are acting in the right way.

There are more benefits to high self-esteem. People who place value on themselves are more capable, having faith that their actions will bring benefits. They are more sociable, as they know that they have something of value to bring to their family and peer relationships. Above all, people with a good sense of self understand that they are unique, wonderful individuals in their own way. They are quicker to forgive themselves for failings, and more likely to attempt to reach their goals without being held back by doubt and negativity.

All in all, it is self-evident that a good level of pride and self-worth is a massive element of what it means to be human. Without this quality, many people can flounder when it comes to fitting easily and comfortably into their own world. The problem is, self-esteem can be removed much more easily than it can be created. When people go through set-backs which undermine their confidence, or repeatedly undergo experiences such as abuse, negative relationships or parental criticism, they can quickly lose the self-esteem they once had.
The most important place we need to apply esteem is within ourselves. We must maintain our self-esteem, so we place value on ourselves as a worthy individual in the world. Self-esteem affects every single part of our lives. If that esteem is low, we can feel like our life isn’t worthy. Elevating esteem for ourselves is the key to happiness in life.

Your own self-esteem is something more fundamental than the normal “ups and downs” associated with situational changes. For people with good basic self-esteem, normal “ups and downs” may lead to temporary fluctuations in the way they feel about themselves, but only to a limited extent. For people with poor self-esteem, these “ups and down” may make all the difference in the world.
People with poor self-esteem rely on how they are doing in the present to determine how they feel about themselves. They need positive external experiences to counteract the negative feelings and thoughts that constantly plague them. The good feeling (from a good grade, etc.) can be only temporary.
Healthy self-esteem is based on our ability to assess ourselves accurately (know ourselves) and still be able to accept and to value ourselves unconditionally. This means being able to realistically acknowledge our strengths and limitations (which is part of being human) and accepting ourselves as worthy and worthwhile without conditions or reservations.
Sometimes we need to raise our self-esteem to levels that will enhance our life and the way we view life. It can make a tremendous difference to our quality of life. Learning techniques to raise self-esteem can be taught and put into practice in just a few days. It does take practice to keep one’s self-worth at the forefront.