EXOD833 Another way that we can improve our self-esteem is by not committing one of the basic sins in the Torah. Unlike any other commandment, it says that Jews have to run away from a falsehood, and they have a prohibition not to lie. Part of the prohibition about lying is not to lie to oneself! A person should not deceive himself or herself and think that he or she is worse or less talented or gifted than one actually is. A person also cannot lie and think that he or she is better than one actually is. But certainly, it would also be forbidden to put oneself down unnecessarily. Therefore, each person must do an honest reckoning of one's personality, achievements, and actions, and then judge oneself honestly. Most people with low self-esteem judge themselves too harshly. In judging one's actions, it is important that each individual do just that-judge actions, but not thoughts. It is important in judging oneself that each person not compare himself or herself with others. Why not? First, as was demonstrated above, each person is different, with unique qualities and potential. Second, just as we fool ourselves by often misjudging our accomplishments, talents, etc., we also misjudge the accomplishments and greatness of others. We often wish to emulate others, when these people are actually not worth emulating.