Inspiration for The Week – Reach Higher

The Difference Between Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem: Keys to Success for Women Optometrists

Two of the keys to reaching higher success are self-confidence and self-esteem. The terms self-confidence and self-esteem are often used interchangeably. However, they’re not synonymous. Confidence is a measure of faith in one’s own abilities, whereas esteem is about your overall evaluation of your worth as a person.

Self-Confidence: Your Inner Cheerleader

Belief in Yourself
Think of self-confidence as your inner cheerleader. It’s that little voice that says, “You’ve got this!” when you’re about to tackle a challenge. Confidence is rooted in the belief that you can handle situations, learn new things, and overcome obstacles. It’s like having a mental toolbox stocked with skills and strategies.

Competence and Mastery
When you’re confident, you trust your abilities. Whether it’s acing a presentation, playing an instrument, or cooking a gourmet meal, confidence fuels your performance. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), confidence is built through competence and mastery. Each small success adds to your confidence reservoir, reinforcing your belief in yourself.

Learned and Developed
Fortunately, confidence isn’t fixed—it’s something you can cultivate over time. Seek out challenges, learn new skills, and celebrate victories—big or small. Surround yourself with supportive people who cheer you on. This continuous effort helps build your confidence.

Self-Esteem: The Emotional Foundation

Appreciating Your Value
Self-esteem is like the emotional foundation of a house. It shapes how you perceive yourself and your worth. Self-esteem is about recognizing your inherent worth as a human being. It says, “I matter, and I deserve respect and kindness.”

Unconditional Acceptance
Unlike confidence, which can fluctuate based on specific situations, self-esteem is more stable. It’s not tied to achievements or external validation. The APA emphasizes that self-esteem is about unconditional acceptance. Your self-esteem influences the conversations you have with yourself, encouraging self-compassion and positive self-talk.

The Dance Between Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem

Picture a dance floor where confidence leads and self-esteem follows. When you believe in your abilities (confidence), you feel good about yourself (self-esteem). However, if confidence waltzes too aggressively, it can become arrogance. And if self-esteem hangs back too much, it might lead to self-doubt. The sweet spot is a harmonious blend of both.

Nurturing Both

Confidence Boosters

• Seek out challenges and learn new skills.
• Celebrate victories—big or small.
• Surround yourself with supportive people who cheer you on.

Self-Esteem Builders

• Practice self-compassion and treat yourself kindly, just as you would a dear friend.
• Recognize that imperfections are part of being human and embrace them.

Mindfulness

• Tune into your thoughts and adjust your inner narrative. Are they uplifting or critical?

Join Us

As women optometrists, embracing these two intertwined aspects of our psychological well-being can transform our personal and professional lives.

Are you ready to embark on this journey? Join us at OptometryDivas.com for exclusive content, resources, and a supportive community that celebrates and nurtures your growth.

Click HERE to join us today and take the first step towards becoming the most confident and self-assured version of yourself!