The Difference between Ego and Self-Esteem

Self-esteem means “I am proud of myself for what I have done” with no ego involved. It says, “I know I can do it.”

Ego says, “I’m not sure I can do it, but I am going to bluff my way through it.” It is boastful, bragging.  It says, “Look at me,” “Look at what I can do,” “Look at what I have.” Ego is always striving for attention. Ego has no knowledge base so it diverts attention to the self. 

With a good self-esteem, you know you can do something. It is confidence, will, and knowledge. When one has self-confidence, there is no need to boast or draw attention to the self. There is no need to put someone else down in order to make “me” look good.

A person with a good self-esteem does not need to “toot their own horn.” Others will know what they can do by their actions.  

A person with a good self-esteem is actively working to help others without looking for recognition for the self. The more we are in service to others, the less we are in service to the self.

Lack of self-esteem is not knowing what you can do. A person with no self-esteem has stepped off their spiritual path. They say, “I don’t know” often. They look to others constantly for advice on what they should do. They give their power away.

When you have a healthy self-esteem, you know what you can and cannot accomplish.  A person with low self-esteem will not be able to tell you what they can do.

A good self-esteem knows who they are. They love and accept themselves for who they are and what they have become. A good self-esteem lifts others up instead of tearing them down.

You are the one who creates your world by how you view it, how you take life in, and how you perceive life to be. Be honest with yourself. How do you view your world? This is your perspective. It is not necessarily truth. If you ask someone else, they may have a different perspective. Even more reason to form your own opinion instead of letting someone else do it for you. Do not give your power away. Find your own truth.

Everything we do is based on our perception of what we believe to be the truth. It is not necessarily THE truth. We may not be seeing the whole picture. We may be clouded by our own emotions, thoughts, and beliefs. Stand back. Take a look at the situation from another point of view. You may be surprised at what you see.

How do we guard against the ego? Watch your thoughts. Watch your words for they validate your thoughts. Watch your actions, an even stronger validation. Watch the way you feel. The ego is intoxicating. It will puff you up like a rooster and make you feel cocky.

The ego is self-serving.  It is doing what is best for you instead of what is best for all concerned.