Self-esteem refers to the appraisal of oneself. It is not genetic, yet a learned behavior. Do I measure up? Am I good enough? Both are internal questions commonly asked by most individuals. The Dove Self-Esteem Awareness Measurement conducted a study in 2008, evaluating the levels of self-esteem of American girls. The results were astounding.
High self-esteem builds a solid foundation for life while low self-esteem is linked to self induced injury and other negative behaviors. The Dove study found that sixty-seven percent of girls in Seattle believe they do not measure up, whether in appearance, performance, or relationships. Sixty-two percent of girls in Seattle admitted to engaging in negative activities (i.e. disordered eating, cutting, bullying, smoking, drinking) when feeling poorly about themselves.
Looking back on the past decade, I can pinpoint several experiences that probably aided in my self-esteem. Did the outspoken kid in fourth grade who called me a water buffalo affect my view of myself? And what about time I was told that no one wanted to be my friend because I was the “fat, new kid” at school? These instances sound trivial now, but at the time, it was catastrophic and heart breaking.
Rather than dwelling on the past and crying over silly comments from mean kids, I want to focus on how we can build up the young people in our lives. Regardless of how a parent or sibling attempts to protect children, they are going to be influenced by the things peers say and do. What YOU say and do at home will make a huge difference.
Here are some ideas:
1. Tell the young girls in your life every single reason why you love her, focusing most on her character. Is she funny? Does she enjoy helping others? Is she a good friend?
2. Compliment the young boys in your life. Is he generous? A gentleman? Tell him how you appreciate his helpfulness.
3. Send inspiring text messages to your girlfriends. Tell her how special she is and how much you value your friendship. Plan a day to do her favorite activity.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
I Thessalonians 5:11
Today, encourage the people in your life. Build them up, help them become everything God intended them to be.
Love wholly. Life fully. Rejoice daily.
Kels
