Do you ever feel discouraged because your work on personal growth isn't going as quickly as you would like? If so, I will give you some advice that may help.

Many people are interested in doing all they can to develop strong and positive self-esteem, and that is a very good thing. But sometimes, there is a tendency for folks who have just started the process of deliberate personal growth to take themselves a bit too seriously.

They may find themselves going abruptly from relative non-awareness to total and complete introspection. They hold a magnifying glass up to every thought, feeling, act and relationship.

My advice to these folks is to relax and take it easy. Take it a step at a time, a day at a time. Developing high self-esteem is a gradual process, so don't pressure yourself to get there all at once.

Great artists and craftsmen work steadily on their creations. They don't get frantic over completion. Give yourself time and space to develop and rework your self-picture. In the meantime, relax and enjoy yourself. Get involved in activities you like and have fun.

If you are tempted to measure your progress, use a broad time range. See yourself today as compared to five or ten years ago, but always keep your eye on where you want to be. And remember the story of the tortoise and the hare - slow and steady wins the race. As long as you work consistently, you will get there!