Low Self Esteem is Habitual!

Did you know some experts believe that up to ninety percent of our behaviors are virtually "automatic?" Almost everything we do is a byproduct of learned responses and habits. We don't actually think about how to butter our toast in the morning. We don't use a great deal of reasoning when we put on our socks. We just do those things. In time, after a great deal of repetition, most of our actions become matters of habit.

Our ability to learn and repeat with minimal consideration is very powerful. It's also very efficient. Imagine how trying and tiring your day would be if you had to stop and think about every little thing you did! You wouldn't accomplish much at all.

Unfortunately, there is a downside to our tendency to develop habits. We don't just repeat simple, mundane behaviors. We also learn to react and behave in a preordained manner in other areas, too. Our ability to create habits isn't always empowering. Sometimes, it is downright limiting. For instance, our habits often restrict our ability to develop a high level of self-esteem.

Consider the man who gets nervous and twitchy every time he attempts to meet a woman. Think of those who can't say "no" to others, because they feel nervous or fearful about turning down an extra assignment. Those sweaty palms, nervous twitches and even those feelings that prevent desired behaviors are a matter of habit. We learned the somewhere and have duplicated them again and again. Now, they are second nature--we respond that way automatically.

That can make it very difficult to develop a sense of self esteem. When your habits begin to prevent you from being willing to do what you really want, they are far more detrimental than helpful.

If you want to develop a healthy level of self esteem, the first place to start is by understanding that your limitations and frustrations are not inevitable. They are matters of habit. That's important to recognize. Those behaviors aren't you. You can break those habits!