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Self-Esteem

What is Self-Esteem?

We have all felt unsure of ourselves at some point in our lives when we don't feel confident about performing a task. For example, not feeling confident to write a test or feeling like you are unable to accomplish a goal.

 

Self-esteem refers to our positive or negative attitude toward ourselves, and lack confidence about what we think we can or cannot do. When we experience negative feelings of low self-esteem, we worry about letting others down or making mistakes.

What Influences Self-Esteem

Our experiences can impact our overall self-esteem. For example, if you receive negative criticism or comments from family and friends you may start to struggle with your self-esteem.

Your self-esteem may also be impacted by:

  • Age

  • Disability

  • Genetics

  • Illness

  • Physical abilities

  • Socioeconomic status

  • Thought patterns

What Are The Signs of Low Self-Esteem?

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Poor Confidence & Self-Doubt: You may have no confidence in your abilities and underestimate your ability to deal with different situations.

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Negative Self Statements: You may magnify your mistakes while ignoring your advantages.

You may even criticize yourself for not doing things "good" enough.

Ignoring Your Achievements: You might dismiss compliments and feel unworthy of your hard work.

Negative Social Comparison: You may compare yourself to other people and feel "less than" others despite making good progress or achievements on your own tasks.

Tips to Improve Self-Esteem

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Identify the Situation

Think about events and situations that impact your self-esteem. Once you identify what is making you feel this way, become more aware of your thoughts and beliefs. Ask yourself whether these thoughts are based on facts or if they are unreasonable ideas.​​

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Challenge the Irrational Thoughts

Your initial thoughts about events and situations may not be what is truly happening in the situation. Take the time to challenge the accuracy of your thoughts and look for evidence that can help explain why you may feel that way.

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Adjust Your Mindset

Shifting your mindset is not always easy, especially when you've been thinking a certain way for a period of time. For every negative thought, try stepping back to see the bigger picture of things and make time for self-care to acknowledge how you feel.

  • Do something that makes you feel good.

  • Keep a gratitude journal

  • Celebrate your accomplishments, both big and small

  • Spend time with people who make you feel comfortable and relaxed.

Self-Esteem Infographics & Tip Sheets

Click one of the topics below to download and print our sheets or click here to view more of our infographics. 

Tips to Improving Self-Esteem

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