"La autoestima proviene de quién eres y lo que haces es secundario"

The essence of the idea here is that your sense of self-worth should stem from your core identity, not merely from your actions or achievements. It's about recognizing that your intrinsic value isn't tied to what you accomplish, but rather who you are as a person.

Historically, this sentiment has been echoed by many thinkers and leaders who emphasize the importance of self-worth and identity. For instance, Eleanor Roosevelt’s famous quote, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent," aligns well with this idea. The notion is that self-esteem is rooted in your inner character and values, rather than external accomplishments or failures.

Let’s bring this to life with a real-world example. Think about a nurse working in a busy hospital. Her days are filled with caring for patients, some of whom don’t make it despite her best efforts. If her self-esteem were solely based on her success rate in saving lives, she might feel like a failure whenever a patient dies. However, if she grounds her self-worth in who she is—a compassionate, dedicated, and skilled professional—she can maintain a healthy self-esteem regardless of the outcomes. Her intrinsic qualities don't waver with each patient’s condition.

Now, how can you apply this in your own life? Start by identifying your core values and the traits that define you. Are you kind? Are you resilient? Are you curious and always eager to learn? Focus on these aspects rather than on external markers of success like job titles or grades. Practice self-reflection regularly—journal about your strengths and qualities, and remind yourself of these especially when you’re facing challenges or setbacks.

Imagine this scenario: you’re at a party, and everyone’s bragging about their latest promotions and achievements. You haven’t had any big wins recently, and you start feeling inadequate. But then you remind yourself of your intrinsic qualities. You’re a good friend who’s always there for others. You have a knack for making people laugh and feel at ease. These are things that don’t change with your job status or the latest accolade. So, instead of feeling down, you engage in conversations that showcase your genuine interest in others and your sense of humor. By the end of the night, you’ll likely feel more connected and appreciated, not because of a title, but because of who you are.

Our society often places immense value on what we do, but it’s crucial to remember that our worth isn’t just about achievements. It’s about character, integrity, and the unique qualities that make you, you. Next time you’re feeling low about a setback, focus on your inherent traits and remind yourself that these are what make you valuable. Embrace who you are, and let that be the foundation of your self-esteem.