How to Improve Self-Esteem: From Inferiority to Confidence

This isn't a good sign, as it can impact our mental health and daily lives. People with low self-esteem often struggle to acknowledge others' opinions of them and may even become sensitive to their words and actions. So, what exactly is self-esteem? And how can we improve it? Let's explore this question together.

What Is Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem is an emotional experience of self-respect, self-love, and self-recognition, generated and formed based on an individual's self-evaluation and a desire to be respected by others, the collective, and society. Self-esteem is a psychological component of the self-regulatory structure of personality. Self-esteem can be strong or weak. Strong self-esteem fosters confidence, while weak self-esteem leads to inferiority. People with low self-esteem often lack this rational understanding of themselves. They may only see their shortcomings, such as a large nose or dark skin, while ignoring other strengths, such as a good figure or bright eyes.

In psychology, inferiority is also known as low self-esteem, which refers to an individual's perception of their value being below average. People with low self-esteem often have a negative view of themselves and feel deeply inadequate. People with healthy self-esteem, on the other hand, hold the opposite view. Even when they recognize their shortcomings, they maintain a firm belief in their value and significance.

Confidence Vs. Inferiority

What Causes Low Self-Esteem?

Low self-esteem often stems from negative childhood messages that shape a person's self-esteem. People with low self-esteem often harbor derogatory attitudes toward themselves, frequently experiencing thoughts such as "I can't do anything well" or "I'm stupid." Furthermore, stress and adversity in life, such as serious illness or bereavement, can also take a heavy toll on self-esteem.

How to Boost Your Self-Esteem: 10 Tips That Work

1. Achieving a Positive Self-Awareness

This includes understanding your strengths and weaknesses. This can be achieved through self-reflection, such as regularly reviewing your accomplishments, summarizing your successes and lessons learned from your failures. You can also engage in conversation with others, asking them what they think are your strengths and areas for improvement.

2. A positive Attitude

A positive attitude is crucial for improving self-esteem. We should learn to think positively and see the root causes of problems, rather than focusing solely on setbacks.

3. Doing What You Excel At

Everyone has their strengths. At the very least, you should be aware of what you're most comfortable with, what's easy and enjoyable for you, and what gives you a sense of accomplishment and earns respect from others. Doing what you excel at in your areas of strength will not only lead to greater success, but also to the joy of work and the happiness of achievement.

4. Seeking Positive Support

Positive feedback from others has a profound impact on your self-perception. This positive feedback can help you view yourself in a more positive light, thereby enhancing your self-esteem.

5. Accepting Yourself

This means being understanding and tolerant of your current situation. For example, even if you have shortcomings or make mistakes, don't overly blame yourself. Instead, view them as opportunities for growth.

6. Set Reasonable Goals

Goals can be short-term, like learning the basics of a new language, or long-term, like reaching a certain level in a particular profession. As you gradually achieve your goals, your self-esteem will continue to improve.

7. Practicing Self-Affirmation

Give yourself positive mental acumen every day, such as silently repeating phrases like "I am valuable, I am excellent," and "I can do this."

8. Exercise More

Physical exercise can relax the body and mind and build confidence. Competitive sports can enhance a competitive spirit. Active participation will naturally foster confidence.

9. Get Enough Sleep

We all encounter obstacles and often feel insecure, unworthy, and disappointed. Treat these challenges as part of your personal development and growth, fully committing to them while getting the necessary rest. Be sure to encourage your efforts, reward your achievements, and provide yourself with adequate rest, both physically and mentally.

10. Learning and Growth

Continuous learning and growth are key to boosting self-esteem. We can continuously expand our knowledge and skills and improve our competitiveness through reading, training, and interacting with talented individuals.

Final Thoughts

By tapping into our inner potential, transforming our self-image, and moving toward a freer life, we can build healthy self-esteem and give ourselves the greatest gift. A person with healthy self-esteem tends to approach life's circumstances, both good and bad, with a positive attitude. On the other hand, those with low self-esteem may view themselves and life with a negative and self-critical attitude, often feeling helpless in the face of life's challenges. If you fail to see your own value and habitually put yourself down, no one will recognize your worth, even if they know you are objectively a person of high value.