Building Esteem

Esteem: The regard in which one is held.

We often hear and talk about Self-Esteem, but not often of Esteem - especially in regards to oneself. I have been working on my Esteem. Not just my SELF esteem, but how others view me, the regard to which OTHERS hold me.

I've been very introverted lately and trying to look outside myself, see what others see in me. Am I a needy person? Am I an energy drainer? Am I a downer? Am I conscious of other's feelings and insecurities? Do I try to make others feel comfortable, or do I purposefully try to "Rock the boat" for a little enjoyment? Am I my own problem.

The answer is probably partially yes to all of those, and partially no. Ha. Doesn't make much sense I'm sure.

The fact of the matter is, I want to be everything great. I want others to see me as great. But I have weaknesses just like the next person. I want to be held in high esteem and seen as a fantastic, wonderful person, and I do hope that a little of that shines through. I'm going to keep working on my "Esteem" and think more outwardly about how others are viewing me, and check myself if I am acting as a person who uplifts others, and try to rock the boat a little less.

Just some thoughts. Now on to SELF esteem.

I think that while building esteem and seeing how others see us is important, I also think that we do better at that when we feel good about ourselves. So here are some things I have been working on to build my self esteem:

Praying more often to God.
Running - hate it, but ran 2 miles yesterday. Go me. This will build my self image esteem!
Spending quality time with Aspen. Reading, playing games, talking and listening.
Talking a little less and thinking a little more.
Trying to put myself in other people "Shoes" be conscious of why they are the way they are
Putting on a little makeup. A little paint always makes an old barn look great!
Making a few less "to do lists" an living in the moment a little more.