Low self-esteem is something that can touch anyone, no matter their age, and it’s a more common issue than many realize. It can lead to a number of problems—whether in relationships, at work, or in school. If you think you might be struggling with low self-esteem, you should know that there are practical steps you can take to boost it. One of the most effective ways to tackle low self-esteem is to seek help from a therapist who specializes in this area.
In this post, we’re going to dive into the signs of low self-esteem, how to find a therapist who can help, what to expect during therapy sessions, and the benefits of going through therapy for those dealing with low self-worth. We’ll also share some resources to guide you in understanding and addressing low self-esteem.
It’s important to remember—you’re not alone in feeling this way. There are plenty of people going through similar experiences, and many resources available to support you on your journey.
Sign #1: Constantly Comparing Yourself to Others
One of the first signs of low self-esteem is when you find yourself always comparing your life to others. If you’re often feeling like you don’t measure up or that you’re just not good enough, it can be very distressing. These feelings can lead to anxiety and sadness.
To work on this, start by focusing on your unique talents and strengths. What makes you special? What do you excel at? Recognizing and valuing your own worth can help curb the habit of comparing yourself to others.
Try to be mindful of when you catch yourself in the act of comparing. What thoughts pop into your head, and how do they make you feel? Acknowledging these patterns is the first step to changing them. For example, instead of thinking, “I’m not as good as that person,” flip the script and say to yourself, “I have my own unique qualities that make me who I am.”
Lastly, surround yourself with people who uplift you. Spend time with those who genuinely appreciate you for who you are. It’ll help boost your self-esteem and build your confidence over time.
Sign #2: Difficulty Accepting Compliments
If you struggle with self-esteem, you might find it hard to accept compliments. When someone praises you, you may shrug it off or downplay its importance. You might even think they’re just being nice or that you don’t deserve the compliment.
It’s essential to learn how to graciously accept compliments. The next time someone says something nice about you, try to express your thanks and acknowledge their kindness. Feeling excited or proud in response to a compliment is perfectly okay!
If this is a challenge for you, here are a couple of things you can do: Practice saying thank you when you receive a compliment, and start focusing on what you like about yourself. Make an effort to think of positive attributes when you reflect on who you are.
Also, keep in mind that everyone deserves compliments. Each person brings something valuable to the table, and when someone compliments you, they see something special in you.
Sign #3: Avoiding Taking Risks
Another sign of low self-esteem is a reluctance to take risks because of a fear of failing or being rejected. This fear might prevent you from pursuing your dreams, trying new things, or even making new friends.
For instance, you might not apply for a job promotion because you worry you won’t get it, or you may hesitate to ask someone on a date, fearing they’ll say no.
Avoiding risks can negatively impact your life, leading to a missed potential and a sense of isolation. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to reach out to a therapist. They can help you uncover the root of your self-esteem issues and guide you in developing strategies to confront them.
Through therapy, you can learn to challenge your negative thoughts and beliefs, empowering you to take risks in life. This can lead to a much more fulfilling and rewarding existence.
Sign #4: Difficulty Saying No
If you often find yourself agreeing to things you really don’t want to do, it might be a sign of low self-esteem. You might be afraid of disappointing others or feel incapable of saying no.
Learning to say “no” is an important skill that helps you set boundaries and protect your time and energy. When you say no, you show that you value your needs and are comfortable asserting yourself.
To practice saying no, start by reflecting on why you often agree to things you don’t want to do. Are you worried about letting others down? Once you understand the reasons behind your responses, you can start to address them.
Another tip is to practice saying no in front of a mirror. This can help you gain confidence in the act of declining requests. You might want to start small by refusing minor requests, like declining an invitation to a casual gathering. As you get used to saying no, it’ll become easier to apply it to bigger situations.
Remember, saying no is not a sign of weakness. It shows strength and self-respect. By honoring your own needs, you remind yourself of your worth.
Sign #5: Feeling Not Good Enough
A persistent feeling of inadequacy is a strong indicator of low self-esteem. This might manifest in various ways, such as:
- Constantly comparing yourself to others and feeling like you fall short.
- Fear of failure, which prevents you from trying new things or taking risks.
- Hesitance to share your thoughts or opinions because you fear judgment.
- Difficulty accepting compliments or feeling good about yourself.
If you’re battling with low self-esteem, take comfort in knowing that you’re not alone. Millions of people face these challenges at some point in their lives. The good news is that there are steps you can take to feel better about yourself.
Here are some practical ways to boost your self-esteem:
- Challenge negative thoughts.
- Practice self-compassion.
- Set achievable goals.
- Make sure to take care of yourself.
- Surround yourself with positive people.
If you’re finding it hard to improve your self-esteem on your own, consider seeking help from a therapist. They can assist you in identifying the underlying causes of your low self-worth and help you develop effective coping strategies.