You hear the term "self-esteem" all the time, right? We all know we should have it, wish we had more of it, or don't know how to get it, but do we really understand what it means?

There are several misconceptions about what self-esteem actually is. Some people think it means loving yourself unconditionally.  Others believe that if you have it, you are either selfish or conceited. Neither of these is correct.

I define "self-esteem" as justifiable positive self-regard. What I mean by "justifiable" is that it is based on congruence.