Altameroy Blog

Self-respect means taking satisfaction in appropriate behavior
and hard-won accomplishments. People with self-respect also
respect others. They do not need to disparage others or build
themselves up by bragging or exaggerating their abilities or
talents. They do not need lots of money or power to feel good
about themselves.

People who respect themselves view selfishness, loss of
self-discipline, recklessness, cowardice and dishonesty as wrong
and unworthy of them. They have inner strength and are unwilling
to let others use or manipulate them. They know that showing
patience or tolerance does not mean allowing others to mistreat
them.

People with self-respect do not crumble when they fail. They
accet mistakes as a part of life. As we help our children set
high standards for themselves, we also need to let them know
that failure is no embarrassment when they have done their best.

Teaching children self-respect, however, does not mean
complimenting everything they do. They also need honest
criticism from time to time. When we do criticize, we should
focus on things they have done, not on them personally.

What You Can Do

Encourage your child to build a positive identity that focuses
on her integrity and talents.

Emphasize that character is built upon the decisions and
actions a person takes each day

Work with your child to help him reach his full potential by
encouraging him to develop his talents, set reachable goals and
honor himself as a unique person.

Teach your child how to choose good values. Help her reason
about what are worthy goals and what are proper means to reach
those goals.