Self-esteem refers to a person’s sense of self-value. It is your opinion about yourself. It includes many different factors and also affects many parts of your life. Low self-esteem can be a problem to move ahead in your life. This depend on your childhood upbringing. Old patterns and beliefs can be carried into your adult life.

It’s not just about liking yourself, but also giving value to your opinions, decisions, and how you treat yourself or allow others to treat you. It can significantly affect your motivation to go after your goals and your ability to develop healthy relationships.

Let’s take a look at different signs of low self-esteem and what you can do to overcome them.

Signs of low self-esteem

Low self-esteem can affect your thoughts, emotions, and behavior. In some cases, it might be quite obvious, while in others it could be hard to notice.

Here are some signs of low self-esteem:

1. Poor confidence in your abilities
2. Lack of control because you feel you can’t change yourself or your life
3. Negative comparisons and thinking others are better than you
4. Worrying about the decisions you make and doubting yourself
5. Trouble accepting positive feedback or compliments
6. Facing problems in asking for what you need
7. Talking negatively about yourself and blaming yourself when things go wrong
8. Lack of boundaries due to the fear that people will stop liking them
9. Fear of failure because you doubt your abilities
10. Poor outlook on life and no hope for a better future
11. Trying to please others, even if it means doing things you don’t want

The impacts of low self-esteem can be very devastating to your mental and physical health. Research has shown that self-esteem is linked to other issues like anxiety, eating disorders, panic, risky behavior, substance abuse and stress, etc.

Ways to build confidence

Your emotional well-being can suffer from low self-esteem. It is important that you get help on time and practice things that help you build confidence. You need to focus on positive thoughts and take care of yourself. Moreover, here are some more strategies to follow if you’re struggling with low self-esteem:

1. Notice your thoughts & immediately delete negative thoughts
2. Forgive yourself – you are doing the best you can, be kind and loving.
3. Practice self-acceptance – love and acceptance of yourself first is key
4. Value yourself, your opinions, and your boundaries
5. Do things that make you feel good
6. Maintain a daily gratitude journal
7. Spend time with people who boost your confidence and support you
8. Help others through volunteer work, this is so rewarding & fulfilling
9. Give yourself credit for the achievements and accomplishments you make
10. Challenge your negative thoughts & turn around with positive affirmations

Connect with a therapist

Self-esteem plays an important role in how you pursue your dreams and ambitions. It is common to face low self-esteem every once in a while, but regular issues can affect your happiness and make you more prone to mental health issues.

If you feel like you’re suffering from low self-esteem; Connect with a professional and discuss your symptoms. A therapist can help you recognize patterns in your thoughts and suggest  different ways to reframe them.