The Anti Self Esteem Club with Melissa Spaulding, CMHC

In today's episode, Grace Bithell and Melissa Spaulding delve into the complexities of self-esteem, exploring its definitions, societal influences, and the distinction between self-esteem and inherent worth. They discuss the emotional roller coaster that self-esteem can create, particularly for women, and how societal expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's inherent value and offers practical steps for relying on value over self esteem, including reframing negative thoughts and practicing affirmations. The episode concludes with a light-hearted discussion about guilty pleasures, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and joy in everyday life.

takeaways

• Self-esteem is our ability to esteem ourselves.
• Self-esteem can vary widely based on external factors.
• The concept of 'stuff esteem' can lead to feelings of inadequacy.
• Inherent worth is about recognizing value simply because we exist.
• Societal pressures can heavily influence women's self-esteem.
• Other esteem is the validation we seek from others.
• Wanting and desiring are powerful aspects of self-acceptance.
• Reframing negative thoughts can help improve self-esteem.
• Affirmations should start from where we are, not where we want to be.
• Guilty pleasures can be a source of joy and self-acceptance.

keywords

self-esteem, mental health, inherent worth, emotional well-being, self-acceptance, therapy, personal growth, self-worth, societal expectations, women empowerment

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Self-Esteem and Personal Background

02:42
Defining Self-Esteem: A Complex Concept

05:13
The Roller Coaster of Self-Esteem

07:57
The Roots of Self-Esteem: Childhood Experiences

10:29
Inherent Self-Worth vs. Self-Esteem

13:10
Understanding Inherent Value

16:02
The Impact of Relationships on Self-Worth

18:28
Navigating Self-Esteem in Adulthood

21:15
The Pursuit of Other Esteem

24:12
Understanding Self-Worth and External Validation

27:02
The Balance of Care and Importance

29:52
The Moving Target of Self-Esteem

31:31
Societal Pressures on Women

34:24
Sustainable Change vs. Treat Culture

36:48
Practical Steps for Change

41:15
The Power of Wanting and Desiring

45:46
Sunny Day Parade.mp3