Self-esteem check: Are you on the right track?

How high is your self-esteem? Understanding the signs of healthy and unhealthy self-esteem can help us care for ourselves and those around us.

High Self-Esteem

People with healthy self-esteem believe in themselves. They trust their abilities and aren’t afraid to take on new challenges. Their confidence isn’t arrogant but is rooted in the belief that they are capable and worthy just as they are. Those with healthy self-esteem are also resilient to setbacks. They don’t let failures define them but see them as learning opportunities. This resilience helps them keep moving forward even when things get tough. Finally, high self-esteem allows people to be more accepting of themselves. This doesn’t mean ignoring areas where they can improve but acknowledging that everyone has unique strengths and weaknesses. Self-acceptance leads them to hold a more realistic view of themselves.

Low Self-Esteem

People with low self-esteem constantly question their worth and abilities. They often second-guess themselves and feel insecure about their decisions. They may have a critical inner voice that keeps them in a cycle of self-doubt. When self-esteem is low, the fear of failing can become overwhelming. This fear can lead to avoiding new opportunities because the risk of failing seems too great. This fear can also manifest socially. Those with low self-esteem might go out of their way to please others, even at their own expense, to avoid rejection. This can often lead to them feeling taken for granted.

Fluctuations in Self-Esteem

Self-esteem isn’t fixed; it can change depending on different situations and over time. For example, you might feel confident at work but insecure in social situations. Major life events, such as a job loss, breakup, or significant achievement, can also affect your self-worth. Recognizing that self-esteem can fluctuate helps us realize that it’s okay to have off days. What’s important is that we build a solid foundation of self-worth that can withstand life’s ups and downs and improve over time.