Which of the following best defines "self-esteem"?

The best definition of "self-esteem" is the confidence in one's own worth and abilities. Self-esteem encompasses how an individual values themselves and their perception of their capabilities. It reflects an internal gauge of self-worth that influences how a person interacts with the world and can impact their mental, emotional, and social well-being.

When someone has healthy self-esteem, they recognize and appreciate their own strengths and accept their weaknesses, leading to a more positive outlook on life. This inner confidence allows individuals to take risks, pursue goals, and handle setbacks effectively.

In contrast, the other options touch on related concepts but don’t capture the core of self-esteem. How one perceives the world involves external viewpoints and experiences, which don't directly define self-esteem. How others view you is more about external validation than self-assessment. Belief in one's potential is certainly linked to self-esteem but is only one aspect of the broader concept. Overall, self-esteem is fundamentally about one's own valuation of themselves.