HomeSelf-Esteem & ConfidenceSelf-Esteem Booster of the Week: Stop Any Negative Self Talk Terri Lomax July 16, 2013 If you make a mistake, instead of calling yourself names or beating yourself up, ask yourself: “What caused me to do this?” “Why did this happen?” “What can I learn from this?” “What can I do differently next time?” Being harsh with yourself doesn’t promote high self-esteem. Be generous and compassionate with yourself. You deserve it.