High School and College Students
Guide To Positive Self Esteem

What is self-confidence?

Self-confidence is the measure of our belief in our own ability to achieve goals and succeed at challenges. Self-confidence is widely understood to have a significant impact on our day-to-day lives. Whether you feel confident in school or not can have a significant impact on you and your self esteem. Creating confidence will help you feel better and more comfortable about yourself, will open up new doors and relationships for you, and will help you understand what you deserve out of other people in relationships and friendships.

What is self-esteem?

Self-esteem is how you see yourself on the inside. Self-esteem has a great impact on the confidence you project into the world. It's something that a lot of people struggle with, especially while in high school and college. Having self-esteem correlates with academic performance, having friends, body image, and a variety of other factors. Some students struggle with self-esteem in various ways. Some base their self-esteem on their appearance, what grades they get, how many friends they have, whether they are popular or not, what they don't like about themselves, and even their social media status. Those with lower self esteem often struggle with anxiety, possibly depression, are less likely to approach people or make new friends, and may struggle with being in school or going out.

Both self-confidence and self-esteem are very essential to your success in the future, so it’s important to cultivate your strength now and believe in your ability to make a difference. One Life Project staff created this page to help you build your self-esteem and recognize your worth.

What are the most common causes of low self esteem?

Body Image Issues

Body image and self esteem are consistently linked, especially in high school and college students. Most young people find fault with their bodies, but it has greater impact on young people who are always comparing themselves to others, especially through social media. Young people, and even some adults, often use their body image and how they look as to whether they have low or high self esteem.

Social Expectations

This is another common factor for low self esteem in young people. We are all constantly exposed to the successes of friends and family on social media and we are around highly edited photos of people on social media daily. It’s hard to resist comparison and the feeling of not being good enough. Society’s unreasonable and unattainable expectations are damaging to self-worth, especially to young people.

Social/Peer Pressure

Adolescents spend an extraordinary amount of time seeking a place to belong. Being accepted by their peers is important to how they view themselves. Teens want to be liked and to be like others which often leads them to give in to peer pressure. When teens are in social situations that don’t go well, they may take things personally which results in lower self esteem. This low self esteem may cause them to avoid more social situations or to misread social cues. The cycle becomes difficult to break.

Self-Esteem and Social Media Use

As social media continues to grow in popularity, the consequences of heavy online use have become increasingly clear, especially for young people. While social media can have many positive effects, researchers are aware that it’s balanced by negative effects that can have long-term impacts on the mental health and overall well-being of teens and young adults.

The pervasive influence of social media has become a double-edged sword in the realm of self-esteem, particularly among the younger generation. On one hand, these platforms provide avenues for self-expression, connection, and information-sharing. On the other, they can cultivate an environment that breeds comparison, unrealistic standards, and a constant quest for validation. Adolescents, in particular, are vulnerable to the impact of curated online personas that often portray an idealized version of life. The incessant exposure to these curated images, lifestyles, and achievements can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and lower self-esteem. The quest for likes, followers, and social validation may inadvertently become a yardstick for self-worth. As we grapple with the consequences of this digital era, it becomes imperative to foster digital literacy and promote a healthy relationship with social media. By encouraging critical thinking, self-awareness, and emphasizing the distinction between online personas and authentic selves, we can strive to mitigate the potential negative impact of social media on the self-esteem of the younger generation.

Comparing yourself to others typically will make you feel inferior and less than equal. It may also make you jealous and more prone to judge yourself for qualities you may have that others do not and vice versa. For social media users who frequent social platforms like Instagram or Snapchat, these feelings are only amplified. That’s because, with social media, the opportunity for social comparison is virtually infinite. Between everyone using the best pictures of themselves, often filtered, some showcasing seemingly endless amounts of money, and super happy relationships, it's easy to feel down on yourself. However, growing self-esteem is important.

As you use social media, try to remember the following things:

Social media does NOT paint an accurate picture of someone's life. It's often only a small fraction of what happens in their life. Some people may experience depression and crying for a majority of the day, but then post a happy picture of them out with friends. This picture is not truly showcasing how the person currently feels. Many young people only post things they want their followers to see, things that make them look good. So for the most part, you are only seeing the best parts of their life.
Social media should not determine self-worth. Just because someone else is doing something cool, doesn't mean that you are less than them.
Be yourself. Post content you want to post, not what you think others need to see.
Take a break if need be. It's okay to turn off social media for a day or two or even indefinitely.

-Embrace yourself with the same kindness you offer to others. Self-love is the foundation for a radiant and resilient life-

Importance of Self-Care

What is self-care?

Self-care is a fundamental practice rooted in the nurturing of one's physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It embodies a conscious effort to prioritize and attend to personal needs, recognizing that sustaining oneself is essential for navigating life's challenges. This multifaceted concept extends beyond mere indulgence; it encompasses activities that replenish energy, foster resilience, and promote a sense of balance. From the simple acts of getting adequate sleep and maintaining a nutritious diet to engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, self-care is a deliberate investment in one's overall health. Moreover, it involves setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support when needed. In a world that often demands constant productivity, embracing self-care is not only an act of self-preservation but also a radical affirmation of one's intrinsic value and the understanding that taking care of oneself is the foundation for a fulfilling and sustainable life.

Why is self-care important?

Self-care is of paramount importance in maintaining a healthy and balanced life, both physically and mentally. In the midst of life's demands and responsibilities, taking intentional steps to prioritize one's well-being becomes a cornerstone of resilience. Regular self-care practices contribute to stress reduction, increased emotional well-being, and improved overall health. By carving out time for activities that bring joy, relaxation, and fulfillment, individuals replenish their physical and emotional energy, enhancing their capacity to cope with challenges. Importantly, self-care is not a selfish act; it is a fundamental necessity for sustainable personal growth and effective engagement with the demands of daily life. It involves setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and recognizing when to seek support. Embracing self-care is an empowering acknowledgment that one's well-being matters, and by investing in oneself, individuals cultivate the strength and vitality needed to lead a fulfilling and purposeful life.

Why is self-care important?

Self-care is an important practice encompassing various activities that prioritize and nurture your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. First and foremost, establishing a consistent sleep routine is foundational, ensuring your body gets the rest it needs. Engaging in regular physical activity, whether it's a workout, a walk in nature, or a yoga session, not only contributes to physical health but also boosts mood and reduces stress. Nourishing your body with a balanced diet supports overall well-being and energy levels. Embracing moments of stillness and mindfulness through practices like meditation or deep-breathing exercises can calm the mind and alleviate stress. Setting boundaries is crucial – learn to say no when needed and create space for activities that bring joy, whether it's reading, listening to music, or pursuing a hobby. Social connections are equally vital; spending time with loved ones fosters a sense of belonging and support. Lastly, seeking professional help when necessary, such as talking to a therapist or counselor, is an essential form of self-care that prioritizes mental health. In integrating these practices into your routine, you cultivate a sustainable and resilient foundation for a healthier and more balanced life.

Self Esteem
and Control

What is self-confidence?

Self-confidence is the measure of our belief in our own ability to achieve goals and succeed at challenges. Self-confidence is widely understood to have a significant impact on our day-to-day lives. Whether you feel confident in school or not can have a significant impact on you and your self esteem. Creating confidence will help you feel better and more comfortable about yourself, will open up new doors and relationships for you, and will help you understand what you deserve out of other people in relationships and friendships.

What is self-esteem?

Self-esteem is how you see yourself on the inside. Self-esteem has a great impact on the confidence you project into the world. It's something that a lot of people struggle with, especially while in high school and college. Having self-esteem correlates with academic performance, having friends, body image, and a variety of other factors. Some students struggle with self-esteem in various ways. Some base their self-esteem on their appearance, what grades they get, how many friends they have, whether they are popular or not, what they don't like about themselves, and even their social media status. Those with lower self esteem often struggle with anxiety, possibly depression, are less likely to approach people or make new friends, and may struggle with being in school or going out.

Both self-confidence and self-esteem are very essential to your success in the future, so it’s important to cultivate your strength now and believe in your ability to make a difference. One Life Project staff created this page to help you build your self-esteem and recognize your worth.

Self-Esteem and Social Media Use

As social media continues to grow in popularity, the consequences of heavy online use have become increasingly clear, especially for young people. While social media can have many positive effects, researchers are aware that it’s balanced by negative effects that can have long-term impacts on the mental health and overall well-being of teens and young adults.

because someone else is doing something cool, doesn't mean that you are less than them.

Be yourself. Post content you want to post, not what you think others need to see.
Take a break if need be. It's okay to turn off social media for a day or two or even indefinitely.

-Embrace yourself with the same kindness you offer to others. Self-love is the foundation for a radiant and resilient life-