Self-esteem is actually a barometer of self-efficacy beliefs: the extent or strength of one’s belief in one’s own ability to complete tasks and reach goals.[1] Basically your beliefs around your capabilities and competence.
Self-esteem is also a result of self-respect:
- Are you in integrity with your own values and standards?
- Do you do what you say you will do?
- Are you effectively setting and maintaining boundaries?
And self-respect is a measure of how you exercise your will and power in the world.
Self-esteem is also related to self-compassion for yourself as a human being. This perspective is rooted in a growth versus static mindset.
1 Ormrod, J. E. (2006). Educational psychology: Developing learners (5th ed.). Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Pearson/Merrill Prentice Hall.