February is International Boost Your Self-Esteem month

Good self-esteem is important for both colleagues and people we support. Self-esteem is how you feel about yourself and can change throughout life. There are times when we feel positive and good about ourselves, perhaps it is praise from a colleague, a promotion, a new relationship, friendship, or a particular achievement of a goal. Other times though it can take a dip based on challenges and circumstances faced.

Some people experience low self-esteem more often than others; they may worry they are not good enough or don’t see themselves as worthy of others’ respect.

Having healthy self-esteem is really important. It enables you to make positive choices in your life and gives you the courage to be your own person, have valuable relationships, and deal with any difficulties that arise.

How working and taking an active role makes a difference to the self-esteem of those we support

We spoke to our Dimensions and Discovery Council members to see how getting involved, helping others, and connecting has made a positive impact on their self-esteem.

Alice, Quality Consultant(QC) and Discovery Council Deputy Chair says:

“It is a great opportunity for me to use my skills and learn new ones which make me feel I am doing something meaningful. I have met so many new friends and colleagues who treat me as an equal which has increased my confidence.”

We asked Council member and QC Kelsey if working for Dimensions made her feel proud, brave, or successful:

“It has made me feel like a human being – I wouldn’t be where I am today without working and meeting lovely people. I’m more confident, I like telling people that I am working, I have more self-esteem, and have pride in myself. They get to see me differently, as a colleague.”

Ten Steps to boost your self-esteem this month:

1. Try something new
2. Get a goal
3. Get moving
4. Help others
5. Look after yourself
6. Build and maintain connections
7. Let go of negative feelings
8. Acknowledge the positive
9. Stop comparing yourself to others
10. Don’t be afraid to reach out

Getting involved and goal setting can really help

Chair of Dimensions Council, David says that council meetings have helped him with timekeeping and taking responsibility, something which he struggled with before. He has also learned how not to get upset by feedback and use it constructively. His goals have also changed, and he is hoping to move into his own house. He says:

Jamie QC and Discovery Council Chair says:

“I have more ideas of things I can do that I didn’t know before I had the role as Discovery Council Chairperson. Being a Quality Checker makes me feel like I’m going up the ladder while making things better for others. I feel proud of the work that I do and I enjoy helping people.”

Clearly being part of the Dimensions Council and/or a Quality Consultant has had a huge impact to the lives of those we support. They have made friends, learned new skills, and gained confidence, and improved their self-esteem. We often are all guilty of focusing too much on the negative and it is important that we set some time to believe and appreciate ourselves more.