Linx Educational Career & Life Skills Blog

Body Language, Tone & Words

2011-08-16T11:43:00.001-04:00

Have you ever ended a conversation and walked away feeling like it was just a little off somehow? As though everyone walked away a bit confused or unsure of what was said or might be expected. You felt alright while speaking, but afterwards, you're pretty certain you did not correctly communicate what you were trying to say. Or maybe you didn't say what you were trying to communicate? In either case, your listener walks away without a clear understanding of the conversation.

When talking with others, always be aware of your body language, tone and words. Body language and tone will often resonate clearer than the words you use. For example, if you say you are really looking forward to an event and you use all the right words, but your posture is poor or you don't look the other person in the eye, do you think they're going to believe you?
What if you were telling someone about winning the state tournament and they said they were excited for you, but looked passed you at other friends or fidgeted with their phone. Would you believe them? I doubt it. Having good posture, looking someone in the eye and gesturing with enthusiasm gives a positive, interested feeling. But, if you are looking at the ground, your shoulders are low or you're playing with some personal gadget, you will give the impression that you are bored or uninterested in the conversation.

Body language and tone make up almost 90% of your communication skills. That means you better be paying attention, regardless of whether you are the speaker or listener. Let's say you have been interning at a company. You know they will be hiring in a few weeks and you would really like to be offered a position. When someone from management asks how your internship is going, you might say, "I've really enjoyed working here this summer." But, if you don't look them in the eye and your tone is flat or emotionless, they will find your words hard to believe. Say those same words again, "I've really enjoyed working here this summer." However, in this instance, stand tall, look them in the eye and have an enthusiastic tone. Who do you think they would be more interested in hiring?

And, be aware of your word choice. While not as effective as body language and tone, words can help or hurt a conversation. Try to avoid words like "thing" or "stuff". When possible, use the correct terms for what you are trying to say. You will not only make yourself clearer, but you will also sound smarter. Of course, if you are just hanging out with friends, word choice will be much different than when you are at school, work or an important event.

Whether you are working on a project for school, completing an assigned task for your boss or simply planning a trip to the movies with friends, your communication skills will affect the outcome. Always be sure your body language, tone and words are in sync. Good communication skills will ensure success in every situation.

We Are Teachers

2011-06-03T13:29:00.002-04:00

Recently, Linx Educational became a business partner with the popular website We Are Teachers. If you are not familiar with this online community of educators, I highly recommend checking them out. WeAreTeachers.com is a well organized site where teachers and administrators share their opinions, ideas, tips and best practices.

Once a business partner, one unique option with We Are Teachers is for your company to offer a grant. As schools continue to face budget cuts, Linx Educational made the decision to participate. It was one of the easier decisions here at our workplace. The grants are a fantastic opportunity for everyone. Not only did five winners receive a $200 cash grant and a Flip Video Camera, but there are now 209 responses to our grant question, "How do you use media like videos, podcasts and blogs to enhance student learning?"

The responses made me so proud of our teachers. And, I have to say, the creativity happening in our schools today is amazing. Every day teachers across the country walk into their classrooms faced with obstacles such as overpopulated classrooms, a shortage of supplies, children with limited attention spans and constant reminders of more budget cuts on the way. Every day they show up and do their best because they know education is the key. The key to a child having a better life, the community having better citizens, the world being a better place. To realize their challenges, it was inspiring to see their responses. Our teachers are so talented and creative. Their ideas are fun, motivating and inspiring. And technology has provided an incredible medium for learning. I was excited to see how our educators are using the tools they have to create a classroom where learning is fun.

When you have time, visit WeAreTeachers.com. I feel pretty confident you will be impressed and motivated by what you find. There are thousands of ideas. You'll find everything from how to set up a classroom to how to keep your kids reading and learning through the summer months. It is a great place to see and feel some positive energy from our educators.

Teaching Your Students About Money Management In a Tough Economy

2011-04-15T11:53:00.000-04:00

... and win a $200 cash Grant and Flip Video Camera

The economy is brutal right now—which means it's more important than ever to teach our students about money management. And you don't have to be an economics teacher to do it—social studies teachers can integrate discussions of money management into many of their lessons, Math teachers can teach finance while teaching math basics and English teachers can have students write or journal about money-related topics. By working together, we can raise a generation that's ready to take on the economy and manage their money wisely. Here are a few ways that you can get started:

1. Use Blogs. Blogs are a great resource for real-life topics like money management because they give real-life advice. Have your students find and print a series of blog articles on a variety of money management topics and then compile them into a reference folder or book so they have something to reference when they have money management questions. (Need a place to start? Here are two great money management articles: One on using credit cards wisely and the other on being a smart consumer.)
http://linxcareerlifeskillsblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/your-new-credit-card.html
http://linxcareerlifeskillsblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/be-smart-consumer.html

2. Use RSS Feeds. While researching blog articles on money management, your students are sure to find some great money management blogs. Subscribe to a few of your favorites and then spend a few minutes at the beginning of class reading through their latest posts.http://linxcareerlifeskillsblog.blogspot.com

3. Use DVDs and Videos. If you didn't major in accounting or economics, you might not know everything there is to know about money management. But that's okay! Pick up a few informative and grade-appropriate DVDs on Money Management and use them to supplement your classroom discussions. http://www.linxedu.com/Money_Management_s/165.htm

4. Use Your Own Stories. Did you learn the hard way about the dangers of credit cards when you were in college? Or did you find a way to create a budget that has worked really well? Tell your students what you do to manage your money so that they can learn from you.

5. Use Games. Kids love playing games. So, challenge your class to the "Smart Consumer Challenge" where they'll learn budgeting, get money-saving tips and learn how to be a smart shopping in a fast-paced and fun game! http://www.linxedu.com/SMART_CONSUMER_CHALLENGE_GAME_p/54-ac07.htm

Your turn: Have a great idea on how to teach money management to kids? Tell us about it and you could win $200 and a Flip Video Camera or the Smart Money DVD series for your classroom! Apply now.
http://www.weareteachers.com/ideas/partnerask?grantId=58

Communication Skills

2011-03-08T15:30:00.000-05:00

How would you rate your communication skills?
Do you often walk away from a conversation unsure of what someone was trying to tell you? Do you ever feel like others did not understand what you were trying to tell them? Or maybe you felt like the person to whom you were speaking was bored or disinterested in what you were saying.

Good communication skills will not only help with personal relationships and friendships, but will also help with school and career success. While good communication skills may seem like common sense, its amazing how many people are terrible at this. The simplest skill includes looking people in the eye when communicating. How difficult could that be? You would be amazed. Especially with all the distractions we have these days. Have you ever been talking to someone while they checked messages on their phone or were looking in another direction or even worse... texting someone else in the middle of your conversation? How did that make you feel? Most likely, you felt as though they did not care to hear what you were saying.

A good basic rule of communication is respect. When having a conversation, look others in the eye. Give them your full attention. Ask questions. If you need to, restate what someone is saying to make sure you understand important tasks like instructions. And, always watch your tone. Remember, your tone communicates more effectively than your words. Maybe your friend is celebrating a big accomplishment. There can be a noticeable difference in tone when you say, "congratulations." Did you sound excited when you said that word? Or did you say that word with a tone that felt envious, jealous or unimpressed? Your tone will express much more about how you feel than the word itself.

So, next time you are having a conversation, pay attention to your body language and your tone. Are you present and engaged in the conversation? Is the other person? Always show others respect by being both a good speaker and listener. That is your key to great communication.

Dangers of Sexting

2011-02-21T16:19:00.001-05:00

Sexting. What exactly is that anyway?
Simply put, it is defined as the act of sending sexually explicit content, usually between cell phones. And, it has become far too common between teens and young adults. The statistics are alarming. As many as one in five teens have sent sexually suggestive photos of themselves to someone else. That's ONE in FIVE. And, a study by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy shows a third have received such images. In focus groups, teens told researchers that sexting is used to experiment with sexuality or as part of a sexual relationship.

But, when it comes to the law, keep in mind that many states view this as child pornography. Teens, as well as adults, have been charged with distribution and possession of child pornography. While some states are re-examining the law, it is still a bad... very bad idea.

For one thing, you can never be absolutely certain of who will receive or see these images. Certainly, you never intended for Joe in your Algebra class to see these images, but maybe you selected the wrong address when you hit "send" or maybe the person to whom you did send these images decided they would then share them with Joe. And with Michael. And with Robert. And with your best friend, Sarah. Well, you get the idea. The evening news has covered more than one teen committing suicide because of this exact scenario.
In this very fast-paced world of social media, teens and young adults are quick to share information with others. For them it is completely normal and just good fun. Yet, many do not think about who they are sharing information with and the consequences that may arise. We all know teens think, "oh, that would never happen to me." But, more and more, we are all learning how this technology we love can also work against us. And, so quickly. Those images move with lightning speed through Facebook, email and cell phones. Once something like this takes off, its hard to stop it.

I could throw out more statistics and court cases, believe you me there is a lot of information out there on this subject, but I think you get the idea. This is a topic that deserves everyone's attention. Teens, especially, need to be reminded about making wise choices when sharing content with others. They need to be aware of what could happen, even if they don't think it could ever happen to them.
Teach students the dangers of sexting with our new DVD, Sexting: Sex Plus Text Equals Trouble.

Your New Credit Card

2011-01-26T11:30:00.000-05:00

Why did you apply for that credit card? Was it to purchase an airline ticket online? Was it to help establish good credit for your future? Or was it because you find yourself low on cash each month?

Let’s hope it was not for the low on cash reason. That should be a big, red flag for absolutely not getting a credit card. If you cannot live within your budget, a credit card is not the answer. But, we do need credit cards for most of our online purchases. And, more importantly, to establish a good credit score for future purchases, like a home or car. When you apply for a credit card, you know it will be a helpful tool, but one that you need to be very careful with. Sort of like buying a chain saw. Sure, it’ll help you cut down that tree, but there are obvious risks. This is how you need to treat your credit card. Use it only when necessary... and when you do use it, proceed with caution.

So, what if you are new to using credit cards? You’re not so sure when and when not to use the card. Or maybe you just want some parameters to keep yourself in check until you feel more confident. If that’s the case, then here are some tips for making smart decisions with your new card:

First and foremost, you need a budget. You need to know that you can pay off any balances at the end of each month.
Excellent point – pay off your balance every month. You’d be amazed at how quickly carrying a balance can add up and get you in trouble.
Only use the card when absolutely necessary.
Be sure to shop around for the best rate.
Review your statement every month. This will help you see how your money is being spent and also ensure that your card has not been used by anyone else.
Keep your card in a safe place. And, if you do lose your card or you suspect it has been stolen, alert your financial institution immediately.

If you spend within your budget, use your credit card only when necessary and use some common sense, you’ll be on your way to establishing good credit for your future.

Share Your Linx Experience and Win!

2011-01-21T14:39:00.000-05:00

We want to hear from you!

Linx Educational wants to share your photos of your personal Linx experience in or outside the classroom. Lauren, above, sent in a cool shot of her working on her resume after watching a Linx video on resumes and cover letters. Get creative! The best of the month will be featured on our website and Facebook, and will be given a small prize.

To submit: Upload your photo to our Wall on Facebook with a short blurb of who, what, where, and how Linx helped you. Get your friends and family to like it, and the user with the most likes and shares by the end of the month will win! Creativity will win you points with us, too. Good Luck!

SAFELY SHOP ONLINE

2010-11-19T11:35:00.001-05:00

Can you believe its that time of year once again? The holidays are approaching quickly and that means holiday shopping. And since buying gifts online has become much preferred over crowded malls, seems this is the perfect time for some reminders on how to safely shop online. So, as you curl up next to your laptop with a cup of hot chocolate and your credit cards, here are some simple, but very important, tips to keep in mind:

Be sure you are shopping on an encrypted site. How would you know? One clue is by looking at the web browser's address bar. If the page begins with "http" then you are not. Make sure the page you are on begins with "https". That little "s" indicates the site uses Secure Sockets Layer protocol which simply means it is encrypted, thus safe.
Check for online reviews. You can use Google, but don't forget the Better Business Bureau website, as well.
Many sites will have a Trustmark like BBB or VeriSign. These can easily be loaded on a site, so click on the logo in order to verify they are legit and current.
Beware of using your laptop in un-secured locations. That cute little café may seem like a relaxing place to do your online shopping, but make sure their wi-fi is secure.

And, here are a few more tips provided by the FBI website. If anybody knows what to watch out for, its these guys:

Use caution when dealing with companies and individuals from outside your own country.
Purchase items online using your credit card, rather than a debit card. That way if something does go wrong, you can dispute the charge.
Be cautious when responding to special offers through unsolicited email.
If you are suspicious, obtain a physical address, rather than post office box, and a telephone number. Call the seller to see if the phone number is correct and working.
Send an email to the seller to make sure the email address is active.

For the most part, shopping online with your credit card is safe. But, as with anything else, use common sense and proceed with caution. And, no matter how much due diligence you follow, bad things sometimes happen. So be sure to check your monthly statements to ensure all charges are in fact yours. If there is something you do not recognize or know is not yours, contact your bank immediately. This means you should always keep a list of your credit cards, credit card numbers and toll-free numbers in case your card is lost, stolen or compromised in any way. And this should go without mentioning, but be sure to hide this list in a very safe place.
With these little tidbits of advice, you are ready to shop, right? Well, as long as you have done this one last, but most important task. Set a budget. Make sure you know what you can spend and when you’ve reached that limit. The last thing you need is a monster credit card bill landing in your mailbox come January.
Happy Holidays!

BE A SMART CONSUMER

2010-09-28T11:03:00.000-04:00

Has this happened to you? You're walking out of the store, pushing a grocery cart and completely baffled. You try to piece together what exactly happened. Is my receipt correct? How could I have spent that much money? You take another glance at your shopping cart. I've got two bags of groceries, a bag of dog food and hardly anything now left in my checking account. Where did my money go?

With this economy, many of us have lost jobs, taken pay cuts or taken jobs for less money. Unfortunately, basic necessities like groceries, gas, electricity, housing and even toilet paper are getting more expensive. I used to not think twice about some of my purchases. But now I think three and four times before placing some items in my cart. I find myself asking if I really need that or do I really need that now? Can I fix the old one or replace it with a cheaper one? These are questions I consider before walking up to the register anymore.

When budgeting money, being able to honestly distinguish between your needs and wants becomes very important. For example, its easy to see how food, gas, housing and toilet paper are needs. But, your cell phone - is that a need or a want? Cable television - is that a need or a want? You may think you need those items, but unless you need your cell phone for work, those are wants. Sure, we all want a new car, new clothes, new phones, but being able to honestly assess those items is crucial to staying within your budget. And, even for those items that you really, really want, create a budget for your purchase. Sometimes if you have to wait a couple months to purchase something it loses its excitement. If you've lived without it for this long, you'll most likely survive another couple months without it. And, if you saved and budgeted for that special new thing, you'll appreciate it even more as you head to the register.

In the meantime, back to one of my biggest budget breakers, the grocery store. Here are some easy tips that have helped me keep at least that part of my budget in check:

Plan meals. Its really that simple. By choosing five healthy meals for the week you'll know exactly what you need to buy. And, for those other two days in the week, you've got leftovers. You might even have lunch. Once you know what you need, often you find you already have most of those ingredients. Don't forget to check your cupboards when planning meals. You might already have the makings for a couple meals.
Bring a list. If you've followed my advice on planning meals, you'll know exactly what needs to be on your list. And don't deviate from this list. Get exactly what you need and get out as quickly as possible. There is a direct correlation between the amount of time in the store and the amount of items piled in your cart... at least in my case.
Consider generic. For some basic staples like canned or frozen goods, cereals and pastas, give generic a try. Often you'll find the generic versions to be just as good.
Never shop while hungry. Only if you've recently arrived from another planet would you have not heard this. I only repeat it because it is so true and one of the easiest ways to escape the budget-busting impulse buys

Budgeting doesn't have to be a painful, time-consuming annoyance. Simply take a look at the money coming in and what's going out. Honestly assess your needs and wants. And then create your budget, being sure to pay your bills and yourself before aimlessly tossing that "want" in your shopping cart.

GOAL SETTING

2010-09-09T15:49:00.000-04:00

We are all taught the importance of setting goals and focusing on our dreams. We hear this, we get it and many of us even start the process. However, it's the follow through where we are often left feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. One way to successfully set and reach goals is to break this daunting task into several smaller steps. In our DVD, Goal Setting: Define & Achieve Your Dream Life, we do just that. Olympic medal winner, Shannon Miller, takes viewers through a six step process, easing you through the obstacles of this sometimes complicated path. If you're ready to make some changes in your life, start by taking yourself through these six basic steps:

Step 1 - Focus Your Dreams - Close your eyes and imagine your most perfect life. Where are you? Where do you live? Where do you work? What do you do in your spare time? Create a mental picture of your ideal location and day. Start a journal and write it all down. Be specific. Keep this journal as you continue through each step.

Step 2 - Get Informed - Learn what you don't know. Get on the internet, take classes, attend seminars, read books and talk to others who have the life you dream of. You need to become an expert in all aspects of where you want your life to go.

Step 3 - Expect Success - Practice being confident. Sometimes one of the biggest obstacles in achieving goals is your own ego. Confidence and a positive attitude can keep you motivated and focused. Visualize your success. It also helps to dress the part and surround yourself with others who are successful.

Step 4 - Review Your Goals - As you learn more about your goals and yourself, its time to revise and adjust your path. Is this really where you want to go? Is your dream life still your dream life? Allow yourself to change and refine your goals. Study your goals and write out a detailed step-by-step to-do list. Next to each step place a completion date. It's motivating to watch your list evolve into an actual timeline.

Step 5 - Gather Support - Seek out positive role models. These could be a family member, teacher, a friend, someone from your community or someone you've met while researching your goals. And if you need financial support, identify those sources, as well. If at all possible, avoid borrowing from family and friends. Your financial supporters should be a partner or bank.

Step 6 - Prioritize Your Dreams - Once again, take time to review your to-do list and the completion dates. Prioritize this timeline and schedule specific times during the day that you will work on this to-do list. It helps to keep this list with you or in a visible place.

Each of these steps is really a short term goal bringing you closer to your long term goal. Be sure to reward yourself as you complete each step. Its a perfect way to stay motivated. As encouraged in Step 1, keep a journal along the way tracking both your accomplishments and the obstacles you've overcome. Achieving your goals is certainly not easy, but by following these six steps you'll ensure you are always moving toward your dream life.

LANDING THE JOB: The Interview

2010-08-31T13:47:00.000-04:00

Interviewing for a job, whether your first job or further along in your career, is an intimidating, nerve-wrenching task. However, it is also your best opportunity to impress potential employers and show them you are the best candidate. Here are some simple rules to follow before, during and even after the interview that will give you an advantage to landing the job.

I. Before The Interview

Learn as much as you can about the company. Find out who they are, what they do, where they are located, how long they've been in business and the position you are interviewing for. This not only shows the potential employer your interest in the company, but also prepares you to answer the interviewer's questions.
Be sure to bathe and use deodorant - you'd be surprised how many people skip this step. Avoid heavy perfumes and colognes. Be sure your fingernails are clean and your hair is combed. Brush your teeth and bring some mints if you are a smoker. Please don't chew gum or wear flashy jewelry. Your clothes should be clean and ironed. And, if you can, cover up your tattoos.
Be sure to know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there. Bring a map and the company's phone number, just in case.
You'll find most interviewers have a list of standard questions. Common interview questions include: Tell me about yourself. What are your strengths? Your weaknesses? Why do you want this job? What makes you the best candidate? Why should I hire you? Always prepare your answers ahead of time and practice giving your answers out loud.
Be sure to bring extra copies of your resume, a list of your own questions for the interviewer and a good attitude

II. During The Interview

Arrive early, but no more than 15 minutes early. And, go alone - do not bring your mom or dad or your best friend.
Upon introductions, always make eye contact and give a firm handshake. Even if you start feeling nervous, keep that positive attitude. Its said that your qualifications get you the interview, but its your attitude and personality that will get you the job.
Listen carefully to each question and take time to think about your answers. Keep your answers brief, but be sure to cover the necessary information. Try to give specific examples of your skills and accomplishments.
Speak positively about yourself, but don't brag
Always talk positively about others. Never bad mouth anyone, particularly past jobs or employers. And, although this seems obvious, do not under any circumstances swear or cuss during an interview. Bad idea.
Remember to ask your own questions. This shows you are interested in the position and will also help you decide if this is a place you would like to work. Always keep in mind that this needs to be a good opportunity for you, as well as the employer.
As the interview comes to a close, ask when you can expect to hear from them and always, always say thank you.

III. After The Interview

Evaluate how you did. Would you answer any questions differently? Was there anything you forgot to mention? Also be sure to give yourself credit for the things you feel went well.
Send a thank you note the day after the interview. Address the note directly to the interviewer, thanking him or her for their time. This will reinforce your interest in the position and keep your name fresh in their mind.
If you don't hear back, follow up with a phone call. Be polite and specific.

Preparing ahead of time for your interview is time well spent and if you follow these tips and advice, you will find a job. It may take awhile, it may not be the job you thought it would be, but stay positive and know it will happen. For more on what you've just read, check out our DVD Landing The Job: The Interview, an entertaining, documentary style program on surviving the job interview.

BUILDING SELF-ESTEEM

2010-08-24T16:34:00.000-04:00

Self-esteem is the way in which we view ourselves and our own self worth. Those who suffer from low self-esteem tend to take fewer risks, focus on their flaws, be pessimistic and form unhealthy relationships. Having good self-esteem gives you the confidence you need to overcome all that and deal with the obstacles of everyday life. With confidence and a positive outlook, it’s easier to deal with change and pick yourself up when you do make a mistake. Good self-esteem also leads to healthier relationships, as well as success in school and in the workplace. So here are nine simple steps to follow if your self-esteem could use a boost:

1. Decide to Improve – change must come from within
No big surprise here - the first step begins with you. Like any obstacle you are trying to overcome, the first step is to realize you want to improve your situation and then make the decision to start today.

2. Make a list of things you are good at
Make a list of all the things you have achieved and the things you enjoy doing. Once you take a look at that list, you'll probably start feeling better already. You might be amazed at the talents and achievements you may have forgotten or not even realized. Give yourself some well-deserved credit.

3. Accept compliments – think more positively about yourself
Most of us tend to shy away from or brush off compliments. How many of you have responded to a compliment by then saying something negative about yourself? It’s time to accept those compliments for what they are, stand proudly and say, “thank you.”

4. Build positive relationships
When suffering from low self-esteem, the last thing you need is to surround yourself with negative, self-destructive or unhappy people. Even after you walk away from them, you carry their burdens and negativity away with you. Now, reflect on how you feel after spending time with healthy, positive people. You'll discover these positive relationships make you feel happy, confident and full of life.

5. Clarify values – determine what’s important to you
Here’s your moment of reflection. Take some time to really think about your priorities. What makes you happy? What gives your life meaning? What would you like to accomplish? This could take some time, but be sure to honestly work through this exercise. It's best to write down your thoughts and start a journal.

6. Take action, make change
This could be considered one of the most difficult steps. Here’s where you have to get up off the couch and start making a difference. You’ve decided to make a change and you’ve set your priorities, now its time for the follow-through. Say "thank you" to compliments, say “no” to those negative influences in your life and "yes" to the positive ones. Make a phone call, sign up for a class or contact that person who can put you on the path towards achieving what makes you happy and gives your life meaning. And, once you take action, you’ll be amazed at what that does to your self-esteem.

7. Set goals – make them specific
You hear this all the time. Successful people set goals. So, why are so many of us lax in doing this? Well, many of us set goals, but they are too generic or too big or maybe we don’t give ourselves a realistic time frame. Next thing you know, our goals become a sort of wish list that ends up in a drawer...forgotten. But, now that you are focused on making some changes, try this again. This time make the goals very specific and give yourself a realistic time frame. Set smaller goals that help you work your way towards the bigger goal. Put your goals in a place where you will see them everyday and be reminded of where you’re headed.

8. Create a portfolio of your accomplishments
In Step 5, I mentioned starting a journal. Keeping track of your goals, talents, desires, hopes and dreams, as well as your accomplishments will help build your self-esteem. Once you accomplish one goal, you will have the confidence to accomplish the next goal. Sometimes seeing on paper what we’ve achieved helps it to really sink in. As you add to your portfolio and reflect on what you’ve done, your self-esteem will continue to improve. You’ll have written evidence of your successes, the obstacles you’ve overcome, the values you’ve upheld and a clear path to where you want to go next. That's got to make you feel good about yourself, right?

9. Accept yourself, like who you are
This is most important. If you don’t like yourself, do you really expect anyone else to like you? Once you accept yourself for who you are, others will too. Be that person who is positive, healthy, fun, and lives true to their values. People enjoy spending time with someone who exhibits these qualities – someone with good self-esteem.

For more on Building Self-Esteem, check out our DVD of the same title. You'll follow two young people as they work through each of the nine steps, building their own self-esteem along the way.