Do you believe someone can have self-confidence but not have self-esteem? Read on, my friend! I never really thought there was much of a difference between these two. But the truth it, there is a difference and it’s important that we nurture both of them in youth.
Self-confidence is described as “belief in one’s ability”. For example, “I’m a great singer”, “I can kick the ball really well”, “I can overcome challenges”, or “I am smart”. Each of these statements represent a belief in abilities.
Self-esteem is a belief that we are valued as a human being; self-respect. For example, “I have unconditional value as a human being”.
Someone can have self-confidence, but not self-esteem and vice versa. It happens all the time. For example:
-We see an athlete, artist, or student who is incredible at what they do. However, they don’t think they are valued as a person beyond that. As a result, they feel worthy when they are performing well and worthless when they aren’t.
-Or we see a child perfectly content in who they are, but they don’t even want to try something new because “they aren’t good at it”.
Here are some tips to help with both. To increase self-confidence check out the Higher Power Mind Skills in the Confidence LESSON. To help increase self-esteem, tell them they are valued unconditionally. Worlds speak life, and this is life giving to youth. Unconditional value doesn’t give them a license to be lazy, but it does teach them that their heart, soul, body and mind are a masterpiece, created by God.
I believe that God wants youth to do great and mighty things and the coach in me loves pushing them to be their best, but we must let youth know they are never without value in the process.
Dear God, I pray that anyone who reads this gets a word, idea or action that armors them with the world changing power of the mind. Amen.
Much love,
Holly