Take action. Solve, rather than avoid, problems. Don't avoid problems and don't fret about them. Face them and identify ways to solve them. Running away from problems threatens your self esteem. Everyday we are faced with problems needing to be solved and dealt with. Avoiding them in the hopes they will go away does nothing but delay the inevitable, plus it drains you of energy that could be used to solve the problem. It may seem easier to avoid the problem, but it is usually much easier to go ahead and take it on. An analogy is the difference between a frown and a smile. The frown takes more effort and uses more muscles then a smile. A smile comes much easier. The same is true of problem solving. Deal with it and smile or avoid it and frown. "The problem is not that there are problems. The problem is expecting otherwise and thinking that having problems is a problem." - Theodore Rubin It takes courage to face and solve some problems. It is within each of the ability to find the courage needed to solve them. Mustering up the courage is often enough to get you on the path to resolving the issue. Of course, from time to time, a problem requires many attempts to find the solution. Do not allow yourself to become discouraged. "For every failure, there's an alternative course of action. You just have to find it. When you come to a roadblock, take a detour." - Mary Kay Ash Break the problem down into smaller chunks and tackle them one at a time. Problem solving is a lot like reverse engineering. Whatever it is, it already exists. Your job is to deconstruct it and rebuild a better structure. Many major problems arise out several smaller problems that were left unattended or avoided. We end up making mountains out of mole hills. The good news is the mountain is indeed made of mole hills. By taking each mole hill and dealing with it, we eventually conquer the mountain and gain a new level of self esteem. "When a problem comes along, study it until you are completely knowledgeable. Then find that weak spot, break the problem apart, and the rest will be easy." - Norman Vincent Peale

Self Esteem Tip Do personal hygiene tasks that make you feel better about yourself–things like taking a regular shower or bath, washing and styling your hair, trimming your nails, brushing and flossing your teeth. Have a physical examination every year to make sure you are in good health. Plan fun activities for yourself. Learn new things every day.