From a developmental point of view, self-esteem can be seen as a product of many life practices. No single practice or life milestone can contribute to the overall self-worth one has. Instead, self-esteem, or one’s self-worth, is best viewed as the product of 8 practices that people can engage into. Self-esteem is increased by how well an individual integrates 8 vital life practices into his own lifestyle.

1. Self-acceptance. Before people can realize their dreams, they must accept who they are. By accepting our own strengths and weaknesses, we are able to understand ourselves better.
2. Self-responsibility. Our every action has its own set of consequences. By being responsible for our every action, we can say that we are able to effect change.
3. Self-assertiveness. Life gives us many opportunities to realize our own strengths and weaknesses. However, this will depend on how well we are able to assert ourselves and accept the opportunities presented to us.
4. Conscious living. We are not the only beings that exist in this world. As such, we must be conscious of our own position in this society so as not to bring unnecessary disturbance to it.
5. Purposeful living. We live for a purpose. However, not all people know what their purpose is. Finding this purpose is what helps us keep motivated in living our lives.
6. Compassionate living. Self-worth is often reflected by how well others value and respect us. As such, in order to gain respect by others, we must live compassionately and share our blessing with others.
7. Selfless living. With selfless living, we extend our blessings to others without expecting something in return.
8. Living with integrity. The only way we can truly value ourselves is when we can prove to ourselves that we are certainly someone worth respecting.