Strengthening self-esteem: How beliefs shape our inner image. Our self-esteem is the foundation of our inner experience. It influences how we perceive ourselves, the decisions we make, and how we interact with other people. Those who have stable self-esteem are confident, can set boundaries, and take their own needs seriously. But many people struggle with low self-esteem, often without knowing exactly why. It is often our beliefs that play a decisive role here.
What are beliefs?
Beliefs are deeply rooted convictions about ourselves, other people, and the world. They usually develop in childhood and are shaped by experiences, upbringing, and social environment. Some beliefs strengthen us, while others hold us back. Typical limiting beliefs include, for example:
- “I’m not good enough.”
- “I can’t make any mistakes.”
- “Other people are always more important than me.”
Such beliefs often operate unconsciously and determine how we assess ourselves. They influence our self-esteem because they continuously send us signals that we are not good enough or that we need to hold back.
The connection between self-esteem and beliefs
If you want to develop healthy self-esteem, you should be aware of the beliefs that shape your thinking. Our self-esteem is like a mirror image: beliefs are the lens through which we see ourselves. If the lenses are cloudy, we see a distorted image. Positive beliefs, on the other hand, allow us to recognize and utilize our strengths.
There are three key areas in which beliefs influence our self-esteem:
- Self-perception: Beliefs determine how we assess our abilities and characteristics.
- Self-confidence: affects how confident we feel when making decisions.
- Relationships: Our beliefs control how we position ourselves in relation to others and what boundaries we set.
Recognizing negative beliefs
The first step in strengthening self-esteem is recognizing limiting beliefs. This can be challenging because they are often so deeply rooted in our thinking that we consider them to be reality. Some signs that beliefs are blocking self-esteem include:
- Self-criticism and constantly comparing yourself to others
- Fear of rejection or mistakes
- Difficulty accepting praise
- The feeling of never being good enough
By becoming aware of these patterns, you can begin to question and break them down.
Building self-esteem: consciously changing beliefs
Beliefs are not set in stone. With focused effort, they can be changed, and with them your self-esteem. Here are some strategies that have proven successful in the Seelenboxer concept:
- Self-reflection: Regularly write down your thoughts and check which of them are based on old beliefs.
- Rephrase: Transform negative beliefs into positive, realistic statements. Example: “I must not make mistakes” becomes “Mistakes help me learn and grow.”
- Practice self-efficacy: Take small steps that show you are capable and can overcome challenges.
- Awareness and bodywork: By consciously perceiving your own body and breathing, you can release inner blockages and strengthen your self-esteem.
Self-esteem is a process
Strengthening self-esteem is not a one-time event, but a continuous process. It requires patience, self-reflection, and the courage to question old beliefs. Those who follow this path not only gain a more stable self-image, but also more joy in life, clarity in relationships, and the ability to live authentically.
The connection between self-esteem and beliefs is inseparable. Negative beliefs can hold us back, while positive beliefs encourage and strengthen us. The key lies in becoming aware of these beliefs and actively working to change them. Those who strengthen their self-esteem invest in a fulfilling life and in the ability to confidently follow their own path.
Belief is the foundation that is either stable or shaky! Far removed from religious or “esoteric” forms of belief and formulas, it is the firm belief in oneself, in the ability to change things, paths, strategies, and views in a positive way that is the real source of strength and motivation. Whether you believe you can do it or not, you are always right! You have the choice of what you believe, when and how, and whether you start to change something if you don’t have stable self-esteem. If you consciously want something but can’t believe you can achieve it, you sabotage yourself and it becomes difficult to follow through with the right actions. You have the choice… soulboxer🥊🙏❤️