The discussion revolves around the effectiveness of self-help courses and their impact on self-esteem and confidence. Participants express mixed feelings, with some advocating for trying these programs, especially if they are free, while others remain skeptical about their actual benefits. There is a consensus that self-help methods may not be sufficiently individualized to address deeper self-esteem issues, and that belief in the process is crucial for it to work. Some contributors note that self-confidence can be cultivated independently, while self-esteem is often influenced by external validation. The conversation also touches on the potential pitfalls of high self-esteem, which can sometimes manifest as egotism rather than genuine self-regard. Overall, the thread emphasizes the subjective nature of self-help experiences and the importance of personal motivation in achieving self-improvement.