AMOUR PROPRE

Amour propre is a French word that implies self-esteem. Self-esteem is the worth and value one places on himself, a confidence and satisfaction in oneself which gives one the power to go for what one really wants not depending on the opinion of others. It’s putting a high self-tag, self-regard or self-respect on oneself not necessarily pride. The knowledge or belief about oneself would determine their self-esteem which plays a vital role in the well-being and happiness of such an individual.

We have to value who we are inherently and not allowing external agents dictate how you should feel and what you should perceive about yourself. Comparing or evaluating ourselves with others or even criticism tend to affect our self-worth. Appreciate yourself for who you are and don’t let other peoples success, achievement, actions or behavior determine who you are, this diminishes your worth or power. We are to consciously decide to discover the best path to follow and that is to value yourself.

Think about this; how do you see yourself, how much self-confidence do you have, how confident are you when you are with friends, family, acquaintance, partners or with what you are doing, how about talking in public, giving a presentation, addressing a group of persons or talking to a stranger. I remember then when I was the assistant secretary of scripture union youth fellowship and I was asked to take the announcement because the secretary was not available, it was like the ground should open and swallow me, I was so shy though the president ended up taking it.  It was an embarrassment but that is gone but now I can stand before millions of people and do my talking confidently. You got to be confident in yourself not regarding the situation or the persons involved.

Once you have your self-worth intact then you soar in confidence and never at the expense of others.

Now let’s venture into what low self-esteem is all about…