Jessica -
It makes perfect sense to me. I've been trying to figure out the same thing. I have found that, for me, the only way I can increase my self-esteem to is do things that make me proud of myself. I have to earn my own self-respect back.
I think it's very common for our self-esteem to suffer when we've been with an A for so long.
I have been trying to sharing more of my feelings and my life with my girls.
I have been trying to establish a closer relationship with my parents.
I have begun to expect more of the people I choose to include in my life - I deserve to be treated with respect.
I take pride in my appearance and pay more attention to the way I look.
I think that if I model the actions of a person who respects herself, I will become a person who respects herself. Fake it till I make it.
Hugs - L