Sticks and Stones May Break My Bones - But Words Can Maim or Kill Me!

What is said to us, and how it is said, can make or break self-worth for a lifetime! Low self-worth, poor self-image and negative self-esteem are highly toxic and affect not just the individual, but those around him or her as well. Chances for a life of fulfillment and happiness are virtually nil.

Oprah has been quoted as stating that low self-worth is a rampant unseen epidemic in this country. This was apparently said in the context of school bullying and the shootings at Columbine. Sadly, several more scenarios not unlike Columbine have taken place only recently.

Hurtful words go zing right to the deepest, most vulnerable parts of a person. It is now common knowledge that children who are chided, criticized, ridiculed and made to feel like they are bad or undeserving, grow up with a tremendous amount of baggage that weighs down the spirit and darkens the soul.

Words matter. Long after childhood has come and gone, most people listen to persistent negative self-talk, or react from subconscious beliefs about themselves that stemmed from the comments or opinions of others. Even though some beliefs are not at the conscious level at all, their influence shows up in life in many different ways.

Being an abuser or a victim, an underachiever, overachiever, workaholic, or becoming addicted to substances or people, or failing in relationships, succumbing to depression or to angry rages - these and many other behaviors can be attributed to poor self-image and negative self-esteem. Most such behaviors can be traced to the fear that lurks inside the self, caused by someone else's words or actions.

While some people function very well on the surface for a long time, others suffer noticeably at a young age. So far, I haven't said anything that most of us aren't already well aware of. The media has been full of tragic stories of kids killing kids. Ridicule and bullying identified as major factors prior to the violence.

The good news is that a lot CAN be done to offset the poor programming in someone's life. Programs that teach virtues and values can and do bring terrific results in schools. If you would like to check out just one that does marvellous work with educators and kids, go to: http://virtuesproject.com

Adults who feel trapped by their low self-esteem issues, afraid to reach higher because they might fail, or who simply don't have the tools to generate change, can and absolutely will transform their lives if they have a strong desire to do so. A life coach could be just the catalyst needed to lighten the load and untangle the knots. A professional life coach understands life's journeys, and truly empowers people.

Suddenly, the individual who feels battered and broken has a champion who is 100% there for them, and focused on their own beauty and possibilities for a rich new life. When a life coach talks to you, you can be sure you will hear encouraging, supportive, 'I believe in you!' words. There's no feeling quite like it! (Oh, you will be challenged too, like a swimming coach will do, who knows you can improve your strokes. Your performance is only better because of it.)

To create healthy self-esteem following years of living in a delusion of what is true about you, will take deep inner exploration. There are wonderful resources to help in the process and you can undertake a journey of discovery using books, CD's, attending seminars, and taking courses. But, be sure to investigate the option of life coaching as well.

A personal life coach is able to help you become crystal clear about your internal complexities – and your incredible value – very quickly. If time is money, life coaching will truly be your least expensive option.

Copyright © 2006. Sylvia MacKenzie. All Rights Reserved.