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Teen Survival Guide
Self esteem
“Self-esteem” means how you feel about yourself. Many young women have low self-esteem—even the prettiest, smartest, nicest, most popular girl in school can feel “not good enough.” It’s normal for teens to feel this way some of the time, but you can boost your own self-esteem. You don’t have to wait for someone else to do or say something to make you feel good about yourself.
- Think positively about yourself and the things you can do. When you start to put yourself down, STOP THAT THOUGHT! Remind yourself about the things that make you special.
- Do things that you like, rather than what others say you should do.
- Give yourself the chance to do well. Do something hard, but within your reach, like speaking up in class or trying out for the school play.
- Allow yourself to fail. It’s okay not to be the best at everything. No one is perfect!
- Stop thinking about you, you, you! Help out by doing chores around the house and volunteering in your community.
- If you are angry, try talking it over with a friend or adult you trust.
- If you feel down about yourself, share your feelings with a family member or friend.
Fun quiz
Low self-esteem can put you at risk for serious problems, like d _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _, drug and alcohol use and e _ _ _ _ _ disorders.
*Hint: You can find the answer in one of the web sites listed at the end of this section.
Answer: depression, eating
Activity: Visit the Just4Me log to track special information just about you. You can print out this log and keep a copy in your locker, your notebook, or your bedroom to remind you of all the good things that make you the great person you are.
To: girlshealth.gov
From: Rachel (age 11), Oakland, California
The kids in my school call me a geek just because I get good grades. I wish that what they say didn’t bother me, but it does. Sometimes, I wish I were just average.
Being singled out can make anyone feel unsure and upset. Still, you will never be happy with yourself if you don’t let the good things about you shine through. Stick with people who like you for who you are. This will make it easier to cope with name-calling and labels. And be proud of your success!
Content last updated February 12, 2008
