a Discerning Life Office (Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy) in Dundee with Paula Hamilton Dip.C.H.t.

What are Self Esteem & Confidence?

Self esteem and confidence are two interconnected concepts that play a crucial role in our mental and emotional wellbeing. They influence how we perceive ourselves, interact with others, and navigate life's challenges.

What is self esteem?

Self esteem refers to our overall sense of worth and value as individuals. It's the feeling of appreciating and accepting ourselves, recognising we have strengths and vulnerabilities and are a work in progress. It is an internal valuation of our own value, encompassing your thoughts, feelings, and actions towards yourself.

What is confidence?

Confidence on the other hand, is our belief in our abilities and skills and how we project that belief to others. It is about how we show up in the world. It's the feeling of certainty and assurance in our ability to handle tasks, overcome challenges, and achieve our goals and succeed in specific situations. True confidence is generally quiet and gracious not loud and brash in other words someone who is a show off – that’s arrogance which is definitely not based in confidence but insecurity.

While both self esteem and confidence are crucial for mental and emotional well-being, they're distinct concepts:

Self esteem is more global and enduring, shaping your overall sense of self-worth across different areas of life. It's like the foundation of your confidence.
Confidence is more situation specific and can fluctuate depending on the task or challenge at hand. It's like applying your self worth and abilities to specific situations.

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Why does good self esteem and confidence matter?

It matters because low self esteem and confidence can have detrimental effects on our lives. They can lead to:

Increased anxiety and depression: low self esteem can mean we are more prone to negative thoughts, self doubt and second guessing, which can contribute to anxiety and depression.
Difficulties in relationships: low confidence means we can struggle to build and maintain healthy relationships due to fear of rejection, being judged or not feeling ‘good enough’. It can also leave us vulnerable to ‘people pleasing’ and taking on responsibility things that aren’t ours.
Academic and professional struggles: when we doubt our skills, abilities and resources we can be less likely to take risks or pursue our goals, leading to missed opportunities and underachievement.
Poor self care: low self esteem can cause us to neglect our physical and mental health due to a lack of self worth.

What are the benefits of good self esteem and confidence?

Improved mental and physical health: People with good self esteem and confidence tend to experience lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. They also engage in healthier behaviours, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Stronger relationships: People who feel good about themselves are more likely to build and maintain positive relationships with others. They are better at communicating effectively, resolving conflict, and showing empathy.
Greater academic and professional success: Confidence in one's abilities can lead to better performance in school and at work. Individuals with good self-esteem are more likely to take on challenges, set ambitious goals, and persevere in the face of setbacks.
Enhanced overall wellbeing: Ultimately, good self esteem and confidence contribute to a greater sense of happiness, fulfilment, and satisfaction with life.

As for many things in life building and maintaining healthy self esteem and confidence is an ongoing process as we age and go through different stages of life. There are many things we can do to nurture these qualities and therapy can be a great space to develop the skills and tools.

If you are experiencing low self esteem and confidence, in sessions I will guide you through the process of how to resolve them so you can move from coping to thriving, be equipped to live a life you feel good about and create a future you are inspired by.

Sessions are available in person and online.

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Client Success Stories

'Paula has opened my eyes to the experience of truly living life…..not just feeling like a constant observer. She has not only given me the gift of knowledge, but introduced me to tools and skills I now use on a daily basis in helping me become self aware and self confident, of becoming "myself". This experience has changed the perception I had of myself, and in turn the way I interact with family, friends and colleagues. Taking the time to listen to myself and finding out what it is I want has been a big challenge for me, but the comfort, happiness and hope I have received in return, although unexpected, has been an amazing reward. Armed with my new tools, I feel confident in knowing I can trust and rely on myself to be capable of dealing with all that my future holds, and am excited and looking forward to my journey.' Nat

'The time I spent with Paula was meaningful in many ways - I gained personal awareness and became conscious of how I was being in the world, giving me choice to make changes. I gained confidence and found the relaxation exercises relaxing and uplifting. Paula also informed me of reading material and resources that I can call on to enhance our work together in the future. I found Paula very professional and supportive.' Lorraine

'If you are experiencing difficulties in your life and searching for someone to help and guide you, then you are looking in the right place. How do I know this? Well, that was where I found myself. I first visited Paula after researching therapists in the area, specifically for treating my fear of public speaking. Or so I thought! Paula's approach of combining hypnotherapy with other techniques has proved to be life changing for me. From the very first session, I knew I had found the right person. She has helped me gain a deep insight into the underlying thought processes which both created and sustained my self-doubt and low self-esteem. The therapies used are no doubt excellent in themselves, however it is very much Paula’s experience and skill as a practitioner, that I believe have been key to my progress. I feel significantly better in the knowledge that her help and guidance, combined with her therapeutic techniques, have made a real difference to my life now. Through her empathy and care, Paula instantly makes you feel comfortable, understanding what you need sometimes even better than you do yourself! She tailors her sessions to your needs, offering you recordings and reading material, all of which are extremely helpful. Together we have worked on overcoming lifelong issues, and for all of these reasons I would wholeheartedly recommend Paula.' Louise (Broughty Ferry, Dundee)

‘I was in a precarious emotional state and having clattered to a very abrupt halt. I was in urgent need of professional support and Paula was referred to me through a friend of a friend. From the moment we spoke on the phone I knew I was in a safe pair of hands. Straight talking, an acute ability to listen deeply, Paula helped me get to grips with some life concepts that had previously entirely eluded me. I was prepared to work hard on this stuff and loved Paula’s method of providing homework with support and guidance. Everything delivered in a clear, systematic and caring way.

Paula was the first person to dig deeper into what the real issues might be. The result has enabled and empowered me to be more self assured, more confident and assertive in my daily life. This work is the gift that keeps on giving. I can’t recommend Paula highly enough. For someone to give you, for all intents and purposes a ‘new’ life, it is really the most extraordinary thing anyone could do for someone else and I will be forever grateful to her.’ Paula M (Cupar, Fife)

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What are Self Esteem & Confidence?

Client Success Stories

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