09/29/2026
The way we talk about ourselves and our town matters. It shapes the way we and others think about us.
Beware of the city with no self-esteem.
The city with no self-esteem makes poor decisions. It has such a low opinion of itself that it talks trash on anyone who says something good. It is always cynical. It accepts things other communities would never tolerate. It generally accepts that its best days are behind it and nothing positive should be expected.
You know this town.
Locals discourage other locals from starting businesses or fixing up buildings. They offer incentives to national chains because they feel validated by having a business other towns have. They toss out design guidelines convinced that lowering standards will attract more investors.
It never does. Towns with low self-esteem only make their situation worse by operating this way.
