Consider the following real-world example of how self-esteem influenced two people's responses to the same situation.
Three candidates interviewed for a job. One candidate was hired and the other two were sent rejection letters. Of these two, one had high self-esteem and the other low self-esteem. Read how each candidate responded to their rejection letter. Have you ever been in a similar situation? How did you respond?
| Low self-esteem: I interpreted the rejection letter to mean that my skills were lacking, my presentation wasn't polished - that I was just not good enough. I got depressed and didn't want to apply for any other jobs. I didn't tell anyone that I didn't get the job because I was too embarrassed. |
|
| High self-esteem:
I interpreted the rejection letter as a sign that I needed to improve my
interviewing and presentation skills. I asked my friends for constructive
criticism, modified my presentation, and applied for a similar job at another
company. I see each job interview as a valuable opportunity to practice my
skills and gain more experience.
|
|
Links:
[1] http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/our-experts/karen-lawson-md
[2] http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/our-experts/maureen-pelton-msw-licsw
[3] http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/our-experts/sue-towey-rn-cns-ms-lp
[4] http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/our-experts/archelle-georgiou-md
[5] http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/create-healthy-lifestyle/emotions-and-attitudes/what-are-emotions-attitudes
[6] http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/create-healthy-lifestyle/relationships/what-impacts-relationships/how-can-self-esteem-impact-our-rel
