Low Self-Esteem

What does it mean to have low self-esteem?

Everyone feels insecure now and again. Our self-esteem can vary from one day to the next. One day you may feel proud of yourself for bringing in a new client or passing an exam, but the next day you might feel disappointed in yourself for letting a friend down. We should all aim to have a predominantly positive image of ourselves – this ensures that we feel self-confident and that we can be the best version of ourselves.

Many people suffer from low self-esteem. You may feel that you are not ‘good enough’, stupid, ugly or insignificant. This can often influence the choices you make in life – for example, you may not look for a job as you feel that you have no chance of success, or you may not respond to somebody attractive who flirts with you in a bar as you simply can’t believe that they would be attracted to you. This can lead to the feeling that your life is on hold, while everyone else is moving onwards. This feeling can reinforce a low self-esteem, which can lead you into a negative vicious circle.

Signs indicating low self-esteem

Low self-esteem is not a diagnosis. It refers to the way in which you view yourself and the value you give yourself. People with low self-esteem often have negative or critical thoughts about themselves. They set the bar low for themselves and fail to acknowledge their strengths.

This is often accompanied by chronic worrying, sadness, fear and sleep problems.

What can I do today to boost my self-esteem?

Starting something new can feel challenging, especially if you are struggling with low self-esteem. By visiting this web page, you have already taken the first step – you are aware of your situation and you are seeking information. Here is a list we have made for you of some best practices – you can try these tips out straight away:

1. Try to think of three things that went well or that you feel positive about each day. It helps to write these down in a book; then you will end up with a book full of positive things.
2. Acknowledge the part that you have played in something that went well and write this down in a book, too.
3. Ask a good friend to write down some positive things about you.
4. Try to view compliments as little gifts. When somebody compliments you, they are offering you something nice – you should accept it.
5. Talk to your partner, family or friends about your feelings.