What does it take to moving from low self-esteem - to self acceptance

Jesus

I'm so glad that we are addressing this topic of self-esteem. I try to have everyone like me. When someone rejects my friendship, I am saddened by their actions and wonder what is wrong with me. The other day while walking I greeted a neighbor with a "Good Morning"; she turned and walked away. Of course my day was completely ruined. I do have many friends and a loving family. Why does this particular action on the part of my neighbor bother me?

@0616 An interesting question. I wonder who might have some thoughts about how when we are snubbed by someone it has an effect that might seem out of proportion to the slight itself?

@ginger, @parus, @georgette12, @becsbuddy

I don't have friends because of this, when I try to make a friend and talk to them it's always about their pain and suffering and tells me that mine doesn't matter.

0616 - It bothers you because you are human and have normal human feelings. I think even the most secure person would be bothered by an outright, undeserved snub. That said, you have to realize the snub says something about your neighbor, but nothing about you. The reason could range from deafness to extremely bad mood to serious mental illness. You pleasantly greeted your neighbor; there is nothing wrong with you. Keep greeting your neighbors; most will welcome your friendliness, especially in these strange, dark days!

This is a big topic. Caring for the SELF and holding our SELF in esteem is the work of a lifetime. That's my conclusion in my personal experience.
How to do that? Very challenging and complex question. And the answers differ with each unique individual. For me, at least, the first step is accepting ME the way I really am, without judgment. On the days that I can do this, I feel empowered. And what others say to me, or "expect " of me, doesn't matter one bit. I have been practicing "being me " without judgement, for so many years. It works as long as I work it.

@0616 Welcome to connect that is a good question to explore I have had this happen to me and I resigned myself to this . That person is in so much pain they don't want to talk . They just are to miserable to have a conversation or just to say Hi. So I don't let it bother me . It makes up all kind of people in this world so just be kind to yourself and know where and who loves you . Know its not your fault that she didn't return your salutation.

Thank You

@hopeful33250 It is an interesting question! While a part of me wants to reason that the other person didn't hear because their mind was elsewhere, a bigger part of me usually feels that I must not be of high enough value to that person, to deserve a response. I try to " shake it off" and sometimes that works. But if it is a day where I am struggling myself, and it took effort for me to step out and say something, to be shot down does nothing for my self-esteem that day [and sometimes for several more!] Then days may follow that I retreat in order to not make myself vulnerable again.

Does that make sense?
Ginger

@gingerw Makes sense to me ginger Been there ,done that