Relationship and Self-Esteem:
A Delicate Balance

Self-esteem is how we evaluate our own worth. When it is dependent on others, our self-esteem becomes fragile, tied to external circumstances such as a relationship, job, or financial status, rather than grounded in our true value.

In relationships, self-esteem can sometimes fluctuate with the ups and downs of romance. When this happens, the impact can be harmful for both partners. If we judge ourselves based on how successful we are as partners, our self-worth becomes conditional upon the state of the relationship. This places enormous pressure on both individuals, often resulting in a lack of authenticity and emotional freedom.

One partner may feel unable to fully express themselves, while the other may not feel validated. This kind of dynamic fosters unhealthy dependency, where a person’s psychological well-being relies on their partner’s approval or the success of the relationship.

In contrast, healthy dependency in a relationship promotes feelings of autonomy, connection, confidence, and competence. Your self-esteem should stem from your love, pride, and respect for yourself—independent of any external source. This foundation of self-worth is key to maintaining a healthy, functional relationship that allows both partners to be authentic, express themselves freely, and grow individually.

Personal development is crucial to this process. Cultivating confidence and value independently, outside the relationship, is an excellent way to not only improve yourself but also enhance your relationship. When you become a better person for yourself, you become a better partner too.

Remember, validation should always come from within.