How certain parents wish that were the case! However, the truth is that a variety of elements contribute to our Self Esteem. Without a doubt, parental upbringing is critical; parents can make the route to Self Esteem simpler or more difficult—but they cannot decide their child's final level of Self Esteem. We should, however, keep in mind the role that each of us plays in the decisions and choices we make on a daily basis. We are not only blank slates for external forces to write on. We are current participants in the play. As adults, we are primarily responsible for the development of our Self Esteem.