Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem

Maintaining a high level of self-confidence and self-esteem is crucial to overcoming stress and anxiety.

Last night, while hanging out at Steven’s, I shared with him some of the uncertainties I’ve been experiencing: moving out, finding a new place to live, completing creative projects, avoiding substance abuse. It turns out we have similar struggles, and he shared some tips on how to stay on track and not go off the deep end.

Later that night, it occured to me that I didn’t have a strong mechanism to handle my insecurities. First, let’s define what my insecurities are, and second let’s come up with a strategy to deal with them.

Insecurities:

• I won’t find a place to live. If I do find a place to live, I will struggle financially, or it won’t be to my liking. It will be too small, or too noisy.
• I won’t be able to complete the next album I’ll be recording. I will struggle to write lyrics. I won’t be ready to record.
• Living alone again will make me vulnerable to substance abuse.

Solutions:

• No place to live will ever be perfect. Start looking at postings and pick a spot that fits your budget, location preference, space requirements. Make a budget based on your current earnings and plan for it.
• Postpone writing lyrics until you figure out your living situation. Your living situation should be the priority. You already completed an album for this year. No need for added pressure.
• Create a “social contact” schedule so that you don’t isolate yourself. Go see your friends: Steve, Shane, Lew. Go see your family: Mom and Pops, Vinny, your niece and nephews. Make those appointments recurring.

Insecurity surfaces when we feel overwhelmed. Take a step back, sit down and process your feelings.

Self-esteem and self-confidence aren’t automatically at high levels. They must be maintained through a rational approach to problem-solving. Insecurities are usually symptoms of unpreparedness. Prepare yourself, and you will gain the confidence to confront upcoming challenges.

Last night, I felt vulnerable sharing my insecurities with Steven. He didn’t make fun of me. He showed me his humanity by also sharing some of his insecurities, and also his achievements. Witnessing him recount similar experiences made me recognize the strength I also possess.

Today I feel like I’ve regained my self-confidence and self-esteem.