Building Self-Esteem in a Competitive World
Dear Students,
Greetings!
College life is memorable, but also challenging at the same time. It is easy to feel lost in the college amongst the several other students in one’s class, and all students being similar in academic abilities. Students also report difficulty in trying to “fit in”- this might be by speaking a particular language, using certain slangs, or dress up in a certain manner. Students with a low self-esteem would face a difficulty in adapting to college life & its unique challenges. Here are some ways to nurture one’s self-esteem:
- Nurture your skills: College life provides you an opportunity to explore and nurture several skills beyond academics. Try to enhance your skill set by joining societies/clubs which are of your interest. This would be a reminder of your talents to others as well to yourselves. A sense of awareness about one’s talents goes a long way in enhancing one’s self-esteem. This is also a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded people and forge friendships- which in turn also has a positive effect on your self-esteem.
- Work on your limitations: We all have a unique set of skills and limitations. While it is important to recognize and nurture one’s skills, it Is also important to work on limitations which one has. If you think you are unable to write well, then work on it; if you hesitate to answer in the class, then move out of your comfort zone and try it; if looking fit is important for you, then make efforts for the same; if you want to up your game in sports, then practice! Whatever you think you can improve, try to make steady efforts in that direction & watch your self-esteem bloom.
- Do not compare yourselves to others: It is easy to fall into the trap of comparing oneself with others & thinking how sorted other’s lives are. This is especially present when one looks at the picture-perfect lives that people portray on social media. It is a good idea to remind oneself how the lives that others project aren’t really true, and that everyone has their own sets of struggles/problems.
- Practice Gratitude: Research tells us that people who are grateful tend to have a higher self-esteem. Making efforts to notice how life is kind to you, and how people around you make you feel good- helps in developing a stronger sense of one’s own value. Gratitude is also helpful in developing an alternative way to look at things, and giving oneself a perspective.
If you feel that you need to work on your self-esteem then try these techniques regularly. You may also contact the college counsellor for further discussion on the same, or for any other mental-health related concerns. You may email on dr.manshani@yahoo.com to fix an appointment.
Dr. Komal Manshani
College Counselor
April 2021
Dear Students,
Greetings of the day! This post is for the 1st year students (or “freshers”, in the college lingo!) who have recently begun with their session. You’ve just started with the whole new, exciting world of college! However, as exciting as it may be, college life also has its share of challenges. Here are some tips to help you make the transition from school life to college:
- Make friends: College life is a new beginning, and most people are strangers to one another. Hence, it is a great time to find people who you connect with and reach out to potential friends. Friendships can be helpful to sail you through the journey of the college years, and beyond that as well!
- Work Hard: In college, you are free to decide what to do with your time. Unlike school, attendance isn’t to all classes isn’t mandatory and it is easy to miss classes and do other more fun stuff. However, a bit of self-discipline comes in handy. Classroom lectures and notes help in developing a continuing understanding of your subjects and can ease the burden of exam preparation.
- Self-Development: Balancing time between work and fun. Classes, assignments, presentations, exams are all important. But you can also develop your other skill sets by opting to join clubs/societies as per your interest- dance, literature, sports, dramatics, music, fine arts, public speaking, films & photography, environment- the list is long! This will enhance your skills, help you make friends, and help you in becoming a confident, team-player.
- Take Care of your Health: Self-care is important, especially since many of you would be staying away from family for the first time. Between a grueling schedule of managing classes and extra-curricular activities, do not forget to take care of your health- eat nutritious food, sleep for 7-8 hours in the night, and do get some physical exercise as well.
- Budgeting: It’ll probably be the first time for many of you to handle your finances. Make a monthly budget with a list of expenses, so that you do not go overboard with the expenditure. Remember to save some money each month for a rainy day!
- Ask for help: College is a new environment- it’ll have its unique set of struggles and challenges. Do not hesitate to reach out for help- friends, peers, seniors, and teachers would be willing to extend their support to you wherever required.
For mental health related concerns, the counsellor is also available, and may be contacted at dr.manshani@yahoo.com to fix an appointment.
Wish you good luck on this new journey called College!
Dr. Komal Manshani
College Counselor
February 2021
