Self-esteem can be summed up as a comprehensive measure of how much a person values themselves in various aspects of their life. It also refers to the degree to which we approve of ourselves and how accepting we truly are of our own qualities and flaws. Self-esteem must necessarily involve some form of critical self-evaluation because it measures how much intrinsic value a person places on their own being; therefore, self-esteem is typically described as being characterized as high or low, reflecting a spectrum of personal worth and confidence.
During my internship experience, it was crucial to invest considerable time and effort in strengthening my self-esteem as a developing professional. Learning new skills, familiarizing myself with various programs, understanding diverse clients, and engaging in a dynamic new environment brings its own set of challenges that can often compromise how we perceive and value ourselves in the professional realm. This valuable experience showed me the importance of consistently viewing myself as a person equipped with skills and talents that are unique to who I am and the specific contributions I bring to the table professionally.
First, I needed to gain confidence in my abilities as a skilled and effective counselor. This is a process that requires an investment of time, extensive experience, and a keen awareness of growth areas, along with actively working to correct and strengthen the various techniques I bring to each unique therapeutic space. Through this ongoing process, I was also able to build confidence in my decision-making skills. There are moments in this work where quick, split-second decisions need to be made in order to ensure the safety and well-being of clients. These challenging moments prompted me to rely on both my intuition and the knowledge I have amassed, ensuring that my clients are well taken care of both emotionally and physically. Additionally, decisions need to be made regarding treatment plans, determining who to involve in the treatment process, and fostering collaborative efforts with other dedicated practitioners in the field.
When I was finally able to embrace my shortcomings and fully commit myself to being a supportive team member, my own self-acceptance significantly increased. I began to feel as though I truly belonged to a cohesive unit that was dedicated to the safety and well-being of individuals who were seeking mental health support. Supporting others in this meaningful way served as a valuable catalyst for my own journey toward self-acceptance and personal growth.
Art Reflection Week 4: Self-Esteem
Broken Pieces, Acrylic paint, 8.5x11
Perhaps the biggest hurdle I had to overcome during this time was the perception that I was being constantly judged by others around me. When we carry the heavy weight of judgment or the fear of being scrutinized, it significantly impacts our outcomes and how we feel about our own abilities. I was undeniably nervous to start fresh in a new place, but I found that building genuine relationships with those around me helped me to see that we are all essentially in the same boat together. Learning from my peers and engaging in open conversations was an exceptional way to abolish my fears of being judged and to create a supportive environment for everyone involved.
Finally, my overall outlook on life significantly impacted the way I was able to show up consistently to my site each day. By looking at every new day as a valuable avenue to learn and grow, I was able to maintain an optimistic perspective while I continue to build my skills, nurture relationships, and enhance my self-confidence. This particular field of work has shown me that people just need hope, and if I can provide that essential hope for them, then right there is the most important and meaningful work I can do to genuinely help others in their journey.