How Has Self-Esteem Affected Me?

Rather than just tell people why the nation’s youth would benefit from a stronger self-esteem, I thought I could share with you my personal story and opinion.  My story isn't that impacting or exciting; I've been fortunate enough to not suffer from an eating disorder or depression, and have never really had that low of self-esteem. 

I personally think a person is either born with self-confidence or they’re not, but either way, your confidence is going to be tested time and time again and even those who once had a strong self-confidence as a child may suffer from a lowering self-esteem as they grow into an adult.  Self-confidence can and will change, for better or for worse.  

I attended a small, private school from kindergarten through sixth grade with the same 15 students the entire time.  Rules were strongly enforced and we knew each other extremely well – we knew each other’s grades, strengths, and weaknesses, we knew who could take jokes and who couldn't.  There were advantages and disadvantages of knowing the same 15 children your entire childhood.  After sixth grade, we would all attend a public middle school where all the schools of my hometown would pool together at and become one class of 250 plus students (quite a jump from 15!) I spent the entire summer after sixth grade counting the days until the first day of 7^th grade because it felt the coming opportunities would be endless – new friends, different classes, and simply an adventure.  I felt both confident and nervous that summer morning as I prepared myself for the day that I thought would never arrive!  My mom dropped me off just like normal, but I soon realized this was not even close to what I thought it would be!  Long story short, I transferred to a much smaller school and my class currently has around 50 students!  I received a lot of backlash from old classmates for switching schools and found it difficult to walk into my new school on the first day not knowing anyone.  I guess that’s when my self-esteem took the greatest leap!  I soon realized that I would have to forget everything that happened at the school I barely survived two days at and allow my confidence to shine through upon this new adventure!  I had to trust myself in transferring schools and make the choice that was right for me.  I've learned to accept my flaws because they shape me into who I am and no one else can ever be me! Because of my current school, I have truly been able to spread my wings and don’t let the opinions of others, both past and current, affect who I want to be and how I want to dream. 

 “It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”  ~ E.E. Cummings