Nowadays, success is often measured by external accomplishments. Hence, inner confidence plays a crucial role in our capacity to thrive in today’s society. To have confidence in yourself, it is crucial to increase your self-esteem. The lack of self-esteem can limit the willingness to try new things and increase vulnerability to self-doubt. However, the journey to self-esteem might be challenging due to psychological, social, and practical aspects.
Signs of low self-esteem
- Negative self talk.
- Inability to deal with life challenges.
- Not accepting compliments.
- Not handling criticism.
- Thinking other people are better than you.
- Feeling ashamed, anxious, worthless, or depressed.
- Avoiding goal setting.
- Over-focusing on your physical aspect.
What can cause low self-esteem?
Low self-esteem often begins in childhood, but it can also develop in adulthood if stressful life events affected your opinion of yourself.
Childhood roots
- Frequent criticism from parents, siblings, teachers, or friends.
- Childhood trauma, such as loss or abuse.
- Being bullied in school.
- Feeling less attractive than the ideal image you grew up with.
- Mental health problems.
- Growing up with parents with low self-esteem.
Adulthood causes
- Serious illness.
- Weight gain.
- Signs of ageing.
- Unhappy relationship.
- Bereavement.
- Comparing yourself with unrealistic images portrayed on social media.
How to improve self-esteem?
- Positive self talk.
- Have realistic expectations.
- Practice gratefulness for small things in your life.
- Be present, forget about the past and don’t worry about the future.
- Physical activity.
- Socialising with people you enjoy.
- Think about things you are good at.
- Practice self-care.
- Don’t compare yourself to others.
- Avoid people who bring you down.
- Start journaling.
- Repeat positive affirmations daily.
- Go with a healthy diet.
- Give yourself a challenge or set a new goal.
Takeaway
A healthy self-esteem is essential for becoming successful and your overall well-being. No matter if it developed in childhood or at a later stage in your life, self-esteem can be improved. Start recognising your strengths, focus on positive, practice self-care, and forget about unrealistic standards you see on social media. If our tips are not enough, don’t be afraid to seek professional help!
