Self-esteem is a variable phenomena that can fluctuate and decline based on a number of variables. The most significant variables influencing self-esteem include an individual's age, traits, opportunities, experiences in life, and heredity. The following is a list of causes for such poor self-esteem.
An inner voice that is negative: Having an inner voice that is negative is a natural tendency for someone to think adversely, which will undoubtedly impact and diminish their self-esteem.
Traumatic events: Some traumatic incidents lead to psychological issues and low self-esteem in the victim. For instance, painful experiences like bullying or harassment play a significant role in the reduction of one's sense of self.
An authoritarian family and a difficult childhood: A child raised in a household that places pressure on him and does not give him the freedom to make his own decisions will not be able to realise his potential, will not be able to establish healthy boundaries, and will ultimately suffer from low self-esteem.
Failure: Events like failing an exam, failing in a career, or failing in a relationship—all of which are commonplace in everyday life and may happen to anyone—can occasionally lead to low self-esteem.
One of the best things a person can do for their future self is to boost their self-esteem. We've put together a list of things you can do to boost your self-esteem.
Acknowledge both your positive and negative traits: Being overly modest, or refusing to acknowledge the good things in life and feeling embarrassed when someone compliments you, will make you feel less confident.
On the other hand, rejecting the bad things in life and refusing to take constructive criticism will also make you feel less confident.
Rather, you should embrace both your strengths and weaknesses; you should take constructive criticism and praise in moderation.
Avoid becoming a perfectionist: While having high standards and high expectations is certainly admirable, becoming a perfectionist and demanding perfection all the time can be detrimental to one's self-esteem. Pursuing perfection could exacerbate feelings of inadequacy.
Meditate: You will benefit from repeating affirmations and meditating, particularly those that centre on self-esteem.
Be open to innovations: You might find innovations in yourself and so boost your self-esteem by being open to new interests, skills, and social circles.
Never make comparisons: One of the biggest things that will undermine your self-worth and resurrect your sense of inadequacy is the constant comparison of your positive and negative traits with those of others.
Rather of passing judgement on others' bad traits, it will be beneficial for you to recognise and value the excellent features of both yourself and other people.
Exercise: Because it releases the hormone serotonin, exercise not only helps people overcome low self-esteem and poor self-confidence, but it also makes them feel happy.
You can take any of these actions to raise your sense of self-worth.
But merely putting the above into practice without aiming higher and bettering yourself will not help you feel better about yourself.