Tips for Overcoming Low Self Esteem In The Workplace

In both business and psychological circles, self esteem has gotten a lot of attention in decades past. Even people who work with children discuss this important emotional marker. Studies have been done that show that a person's own self worth can greatly influence their ability to perform. Key questions for, you the leader, are what is the impact of self esteem in the work environment? and How do you develop your own self worth, as well as encouraging healthy self esteem in your colleagues?

There are numerous misconceptions surrounding the concept of self esteem. Many people seem to think that this personal trait is comprised of only how a person portrays himself. In fact, this couldn't be further from the truth. While internal dialogue does play a strong part in developing healthy self esteem, you can't lie to yourself. True development of self esteem must be based in actual accomplishments and strength of character.

Strong Self Esteem for Effective Leadership

Before you begin working with your team, you must build your own self esteem. Doing this helps you open up to your own weaknesses and increases your own ability to assist team members in this valuable process. Avoiding overcoming low self esteem has hidden consequences. For example, even when you know all the things you should do for success, self destructive feelings can cause your ultimate failure, because you self-sabotage.

Overcoming low self esteem cannot be cured by other people's opinions. Rather, you must begin to believe in your own worth before real change is apparent - either to yourself or others. Strong self esteem can be developed using some simple exercises, performed on a daily basis. The regimen may include:

• Setting actionable goals
• Accepting Responsibility for your feelings
• Basing decisions and activities on core moral principles
• Assessing the success of each day's work
• Paying attention to your self-talk
• Recognizing and rewarding your own accomplishments

Overcoming Low Self Esteem in Others

Going through a low self esteem crisis in your own life makes you a better leader. Many people hesitate to share these struggles with team members, but the best leaders use these as an opportunity to reach out and help those around them. One of the best ways to create trust and connection between colleagues is to admit your own weaknesses. This brings the human element into the mix and makes it easier to touch the lives of others. But don't over do it!

There are many ways that you can build self esteem in your team members. The strategies used are not necessarily different than the methods for building personal self esteem. They are, however, more directed. As a team leader, you are striving to create a culture of quality - both in products, services and people. Just making a company that your colleagues can be proud of can contribute to overall self esteem.

• Create service opportunities that your team can participate in together
• Recognize individual strengths, especially those that aren't seen in normal incentive programs
• Personalize relationships, valuing things like family and hobbies
• Provide uplifting training on a regular basis
• Show each team member how their individual contribution to the important goals of your venture
• Developing a sense of acceptance and belonging within the team

The biggest challenge in overcoming low self esteem is the individual's own beliefs. While you will work to help them see what they have to offer, the ultimate challenge is making them believe that they really have something to offer. As a good leader, this must be done with skill and care.