Self Esteem

In this discussion film "Self Esteem" (1971) by J.W. Newman Corp. and James Newman and Daniel Whiteside, a group of individuals explores what it means to feel good about oneself and how internal dialogue shapes self-image. Participants share personal struggles with negative self-talk, lack of confidence, and feelings of inadequacy often rooted in childhood experiences and comparisons to others. The facilitator emphasizes that self-esteem is largely influenced by the subconscious messages we give ourselves, not by external validation. Through exercises, the group begins to understand that building self-worth starts with accepting oneself and reinforcing positive, self-affirming thoughts. The conversation underscores the importance of directing one’s inner voice, recognizing personal value, and taking steps toward self-acceptance to improve self-esteem. Note: James Newman was a pioneering behavioral scientist whose study of high-performance people identified a group of habits, attitudes and patterns of behavior which appeared to be common denominators of high levels of success and achievement. Newman was one of the founders of the PACE® Organization.





0:00 – Main titles. The facilitator asks the group what they could do to have more self-esteem and feel better about themselves.

1:04 – Participants share that stopping negative self-talk, building confidence, and accepting good things in life without dismissing them would improve self-esteem.

1:56 – Facilitator James Newman explains the concept of self-image from Proverbs, emphasizing that how one thinks about themselves shapes who they are.

2:59 – Daniel Whiteside highlights that self-talk reinforces our self-image and influences behavior.

3:24 – The group is asked to create clay models representing their self-image, with some explaining their sculptures as symbols of searching, expanding, or lacking direction.

5:01 – One participant shares feeling directionless and lacking confidence because they don’t follow through on goals, but says setting goals could help.

6:00 – Newman explains how self-esteem begins in childhood, which shapes the subconscious self-image.

7:00 – A participant recalls feeling “stupid” compared to a high-achieving sibling, realizing the feeling came from repeatedly telling themselves they weren’t capable.

7:48 – How people with low self-esteem struggle to accept compliments and often dismiss them, which reinforces negative self-image.

8:52 – Newman explains that rejecting compliments reflects not seeing oneself as valuable, then asks a participant how they’d feel if genuinely complimented.

9:20 – Another participant admits being judged by appearance at school.

10:06 – Newman notes that people often put themselves down hoping others will argue, but this can reveal their true self-image.

10:42 – How to strengthen self-esteem by self-acceptance and reinforcing positive self-talk.

11:06 – One participant shares feeling unworthy when speaking with others.

12:08 – What ultimately matters is what you say to yourself about yourself, not others’ reactions.

12:25 – A participant opens up about a strained relationship with their father.

14:02 – They cope by telling themselves their father cares even if he doesn’t show it, learning to live with it.

14:26 – Directing internal thoughts deliberately to build self-esteem.

15:01 – A participant shares how focusing on their talent in music helps them feel good about themselves, despite not excelling in all areas.

15:24 – The group practices affirmations together to reinforce positive self-image.

16:04 – Participants admit the affirmations don’t feel completely real yet but believe with reinforcement they will internalize them.

17:05 – Self-esteem must come from within; others can support them, but only they can build their own self-worth.

17:20 – Participants express hope for feeling better about themselves soon through self-talk and self-belief.