Self-Esteem Comes From Mastery

James, a junior at Lyme-Old Lyme High School, thought he was not good at math.  So he didn’t try hard and since math has distinct answers, he often felt “stupid” (his word) when in math class.

As I started working with James, I realized that he was not natively terrible in math.  He just never learned the basics of algebra.  The pandemic has had disastrous effects on education but particularly on boys and particularly with math.  Most – like James – learned to do enough to get Bs or higher without learning much.

The disproportional focus on making students feel good through grade inflation backfired.

When they don’t learn the basics, the good grade will not make them feel better the next year.

Mastery will.

The Link Between Self-Esteem and Academic Performance

Studies in educational psychology have found a correlation between high levels of self-esteem and better academic performance. High self-esteem has been shown to influence factors like concentration, perseverance, and resilience—all crucial components of academic achievement.

Encouraging self-esteem is not merely about promoting a positive self-image; it’s a critical factor in a student’s academic journey. Students who believe in themselves are more likely to set ambitious goals, engage more deeply in their work, and ultimately, succeed in their academic endeavors.

Skill Development

Another critical aspect of building self-esteem is skill mastery. As students hone their skills—whether in academics, sports, or the arts—they gain confidence that translates into a broader sense of self-efficacy.

Realistic Goal-Setting

Students often undermine their self-esteem by setting unrealistic goals and falling short. Balanced, achievable goals, on the other hand, offer opportunities for small successes that contribute to building self-esteem over time.

Practical Strategies for Boosting Self-Esteem

Self-Reflection and Journaling

Engaging in self-reflection and maintaining a journal can help students identify their strengths and areas for improvement, thereby providing a roadmap for building self-esteem.

Engaging in Peer Support

Peer learning and mentorship opportunities can also offer platforms for boosting self-esteem. Learning from peers not only helps in academic improvement but also provides social reinforcement.

Building self-esteem is not a one-time effort but a long-term commitment that requires a multifaceted approach. From positive affirmation to skill mastery and realistic goal-setting, numerous strategies can help build a robust sense of self-worth. Given the irrefutable link between self-esteem and academic performance, focusing on boosting self-esteem is not just an emotional investment but an academic one as well.