Self Esteem
How does one get past this by middle-age? I mean, if your whole life you have never been encouraged or supported by anyone, how do I change that now? Like teaching and old dog new tricks. I wish there was a magic pill for it. They got pills for everything else. My face has developed a constant frown. Unless I get botox, that isn't going to change. I have dark patches under my eyes. It makes me look half dead. Maybe that's why I like The Walking Dead. I can relate to them wondering aimlessly with emptiness in their faces.
I try to talk myself up, but I argue with me. It gets ugly sometimes. Tempers flare. Words are exchanged.
I try to joke to lighten things up and to push my pain and sadness away. But it is always there. It always wins.
I try to talk myself up, but I argue with me. It gets ugly sometimes. Tempers flare. Words are exchanged.
I try to joke to lighten things up and to push my pain and sadness away. But it is always there. It always wins.
Replies
I really wish I had a good answer. Maybe you should consider going to a professional who would have more experience with helping people through this. All I can do is be a friend and lend support. Maybe you can try making a point to focus on positive things that happen, even if it is once a day. The more positive thoughts you have, the less negative thoughts will have the chance to stick around. (yeah, i feel like that is sort of a cheesy answer.. but it made sense in my head)
Try to let the compliments and encouragement that you get (even just occasionally) sink in. When your wife, kids, or friends say something nice to you, try to believe it. I read in so many articles and books to treat ourselves like a friend. So talk to yourself when you are feeling bad the way you would speak and encourage a friend. If your mind argues, well... tell it to cool it lol! I know easier said than done. Even if there was a magic self esteem pill, it would probably come with a long list of possible side effects that would make it scary to take : ) Do you get enough quality sleep? (For the dark circles)