WHAT IS SELF-ESTEEM AND TYPES OF SELF-ESTEEM.
Self-esteem is the perception and assessment we have of ourselves. It is the ability to recognise ourselves as valuable, unique and capable individuals. High self-esteem is characterised by self-confidence and the ability to face challenges and fears without constantly worrying that one will end up failing, whereas low self-esteem manifests itself through insecurities, emotional dependence and difficulty in making decisions.
In addition to having low or high self-esteem, there is also fluctuating self-esteem, where one’s self-worth depends on external factors or the approval of others; or self-esteem taken to extremes. For example, healthy self-esteem is based on mutual respect, whereas if taken to extremes, it becomes an inflated and self-centred view of oneself, which can develop into a psychological condition.
THE IMPORTANCE OF SELF-ESTEEM IN EVERYDAY LIFE.
A healthy sense of self-esteem influences our decision-making, how we tackle challenges, and how we perceive ourselves in our personal and professional relationships. It is an essential part of our daily lives, as it affects virtually every aspect of our existence.
- Positive self-esteem reduces the risk of anxiety, depression and other emotional disorders.
- It helps you face adversity with greater resilience, enabling you to overcome setbacks and challenges.
- People with healthy self-esteem are able to set and respect boundaries in their relationships.
- Having a healthy and stable sense of self-esteem helps foster connections with others and prevents emotional dependence.
- Believing in yourself boosts and encourages decision-making, creativity and problem-solving.
- It helps us make choices based on our own values and goals, without relying too heavily on the opinions of others.
- People with healthy self-esteem accept their mistakes as part of the learning process, rather than placing excessive blame on themselves.
- People with healthy self-esteem tend to practise self-care by adopting healthy habits.
- It helps you stay focused on your personal and professional goals, even in difficult situations.
- It enables us to recognise and appreciate everyone’s qualities, which contributes to their satisfaction and well-being.
*Low self-esteem can lead to harmful behaviours, such as substance abuse or self-denial.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SELF-ESTEEM, SELF-CONCEPT AND SELF-IMAGE. COMPONENTS OF SELF-ESTEEM.
Whilst self-esteem reflects how we value ourselves, self-concept encompasses the view we have of ourselves, and self-image relates to how we perceive ourselves physically.
Elements of self-esteem:
- Self-assessment: how we judge ourselves.
- Self-esteem: the perception of our own worth.
- Self-respect: how you treat yourself.
FACTORS AFFECTING SELF-ESTEEM.
– Experiences during childhood and adolescence. Comments from parents, teachers and peers can shape self-esteem from a very early age.
– The influence of family, school and society. Emotional support in these settings is crucial.
– The role of social media and the media. Constant comparison with unrealistic standards.
– The link between self-esteem and mental health. Unhealthy self-esteem can lead to anxiety disorders or depression.
HOW TO TELL IF YOU HAVE HIGH OR LOW SELF-ESTEEM.
- Signs of low self-esteem.
– Fear of rejection.
– Avoiding new or difficult situations.
– A constant need for approval or validation.
– Insecurity or fear of making a mistake.
– Negative self-image.
– Neglecting one’s personal or physical appearance.
– Comparing oneself unfavourably with others.
– Exaggerating one’s own mistakes and feeling responsible for things beyond one’s control.
– Thoughts such as “I’m not good enough” or “I get everything wrong”.
– Anxiety and sadness.
- Behaviours associated with high self-esteem.
– Confidence in decision-making.
– Ability to take constructive criticism on board.
– Recognition of personal achievements.
– Tackling challenges with confidence and without fear of failure.
– Maintain healthy habits and prioritise physical and mental wellbeing.
– Recognise strengths and weaknesses.
– To feel confident in one’s own abilities.
– To appreciate life’s achievements, relationships and opportunities.
STRATEGIES FOR BUILDING SELF-ESTEEM.
- Techniques for self-awareness. Keeping a diary, acknowledging and accepting your past, or taking the time to get to know yourself better by identifying your strengths and weaknesses.
- Change your inner dialogue. Identify negative thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations; seek inspiration and be kind to yourself.
- Acceptance and dealing with mistakes. Celebrate your uniqueness and acknowledge your flaws without judging yourself.
- Set realistic goals. Set achievable goals, recognise achievements and learn from setbacks.
- Practise self-care. Physical needs, exercise, meditation, hobbies, etc.
- Build social and emotional skills. Practise assertiveness, connect with others and ask for help when you need it. We can’t always manage on our own; we are social beings and need one another.
- Set healthy boundaries. Learn to say “no” and avoid comparing yourself to others.
*It is always necessary to seek the help of a healthcare professional to identify the various situations that lead to destructive or unhealthy self-esteem, so that we can build it up, as self-esteem is an ongoing process that requires self-acceptance and personal growth.
