What is the self? How does self-esteem develop and how is it maintained? How can the dynamic of self-development in early childhood be pursued in later life? What role do psychotherapy, self-education and education play in this?The main lines of tradition and perspectives of these questions are examined both in a philosophical and in a depth-psychological context. It becomes apparent that a stable self-esteem among other things is formed through the successful realization of one's values. The productive pursuit of self-esteem means the emotional, social and spiritual cultivation of one's own lifeworld. This is an emancipatory process of shaping oneself through cultural work in the service of a humane, decent civilisation. Seen thus, self-esteem seems to be a personal achievement, the result of self-liberation fostered by psychotherapy and education. This is demonstrated on the basis of examples from psychotherapy and biographical accounts.