Self-Esteem

Self-esteem is essential for a happy life. In the Personal View self-esteem is based on how we see ourselves in the context of the world. It is how we value ourselves in comparison to others as well as how they see us. This view is precarious, as it can come and go.

There seems to be something missing when self-esteem is based on what we do, what we have and who we know.

Sometimes there can be a sense that something is missing, and we are uncertain about our self esteem. We can doubt ourselves and think “The life I am living is not authentic. This is not really me.” 

In the Spiritual View self-esteem is found in our aware­ness and expression of spiritual qualities. Intelligence, appreciation, humor, creativity, clarity, friendliness, gratitude, usefulness are qualities that are welcomed by anyone and everyone. They cannot be taken away or lost, nor are they dependent on approval by others. When we express spiritual qualities, we enjoy non-personal non-conditional self-esteem. And the good news is that this self-esteem is always available to us. 

Often we find that with this self-esteem we are appreciated by others. What is being appreciated is the recognition of the spiritual qualities being expressed. This is different from the comparison, and sometimes even envy and jealousy, that comes from being liked by others based on how we look, what we have, how much we know, etc.

Spiritual self-esteem is far more satisfying and fulfilling and we are at peace with ourselves and the world.