New Experiences Lead to Stronger Self-Esteem

New experiences can bolster self-esteem. I learned this first-hand this week when I received training on new technology for managing my type 1 diabetes. As exciting as it is to be on the cutting edge, my ancient VCR is still unconnected since my recent move because I can't figure out how to attach it to my new cable box. New technology is challenging for me and I was nervous about going in for my training. I am still a bit anxious today as I continue to learn on the job, so to speak, but every day I see tiny little improvements in my diabetes control, and it keeps me motivated. This new experience is strengthening my self-esteem, bit by bit.

There are always opportunities for growth presented to us that we can choose to take advantage of or let pass by. When we have a healthy sense of self-esteem, we're comfortable enough to try things that stretch us out of our comfort zone because we can recognize the benefits. I know that this new technology has the power to help me live longer, so I'm dealing with the discomfort of the unknown. As for my VCR, I can live without it indefinitely; the benefits aren't strong enough to make me want to expend my mental energy right now.

When to Accept a New Experience that Helps Self-Esteem

It's important to recognize that we don't have to do everything. However, it's also important to feel secure enough to try new experiences for self-esteem. When our motivation to explore new boundaries comes from within we are on the right path. Doing things because other people tell us we should, or simply because it's the latest fad makes it hard to motivate yourself. You have permission to respectfully say, "Thank you for your suggestion, I'll keep it in mind," -- and then ignore it.

How does pushing ourselves when we feel it's right and passing things by that don't suit us help build our self-esteem?

• Trying new things takes courage. Much of life takes courage and practicing bravery will increase your trust in your capabilities.
• Doing what you need to do to not merely survive but to grow and thrive proves you feel worthy of the effort. Find the things you feel most deserving of your attention and energy for your good, and let the others pass.
• We all have different needs, desires, strengths, challenges and goals. The world would be a boring place if we were all the same. Explore and celebrate your uniqueness. Your goal is to be the best you possible, and not a second-rate someone else.

If at First, You Don't Succeed

Everything we attempt will not be successful. That's to be expected and it's okay. Actors get turned down a lot more than they get hired after auditions, but if they didn't keep trying they wouldn't be able to be actors and fulfill their passion. We learn from each experience no matter what the outcome is. Learning is growth even when the lesson is that you don't enjoy rock wall climbing as much as you expected. Congratulate yourself for trying and move on to the next event.

The fear of failure can be crippling to the point of paralysis. To make things less scary, try breaking new experiences for self-esteem into tiny pieces and take one baby step at a time. Let learning be your primary goal and define your outcome as successful simply because you showed up and made the effort.

Let's all work on stretching just a bit this week and expanding our love of our curiosity and capabilities. Be brave. You are worth the effort of going for your dreams. 

What one thing would you like to be brave enough to try right now? How will going for it make you feel afterward? Share your comments below.