Overcoming Low Self Esteem: A Lifelong Challenge?

Overcoming low self esteem may seem difficult, when the truth is it is very easy. First, we need to identify the causes of low self-concept in order for us to know more about overcoming low self esteem. OVERCOMING LOW ESTEEM STARTS WITH FINDING OUT THE POSSIBLE REASONS: • Family relationships. A person’s self esteem is affected early by the significant persons in his life. Needless to say, parents truly have the greatest and lasting impact on their offspring’s self-concept. It is through them that a child begins to understand the world and his own self. If a child grew up in an atmosphere of chaos, he may think of himself poorly and may have a hard time overcoming low self esteem issues. • Peers. As you grow older, you will meet new people. Some of them will become your friends. Of course, these friends will have a great influence on your self esteem. First, you seek acceptance and approval from them. You strive to be like them. If your friends are intelligent, you are pressured to keep up so that you could also be one of the brightest in the class. Likewise, if your friends are law breakers, you tend to be one as well and regard them as “cool” people. Well, the truth is they’re not! Second, you value your friends’ opinions too much. Too much that you sometimes forget what you really like. You are in absolute control of your being. In the end, everything will still be based on your own decision, not theirs. • Abilities. Those who are smart usually have a good image of themselves. The same goes for talented individuals. But how about those who are not that talented or smart? You should not feel bad if you are not that smart or as talented, since each person is unique. They may be smart, they may be good in singing but who knows, you may be better than them when it comes to dancing. Utilize your skills/talents/abilities and do not be afraid to share it to the world. • Economic Status. Numerous studies show that the socio-economic status of an individual greatly affects his self esteem. Those who experience financial difficulties may feel remorseful over the fact that they cannot afford to buy things that their friends possess. Overcoming low self esteem would then be a grave issue for them. If you are one of them, stop being resentful over the fact that you are not that rich. Bear in mind it is your edge because you are a lot more independent than them. • Names or Nicknames. You may not believe but names greatly affect the way a person perceives himself. A person is easily embarrassed if someone regards his name as something funny. Then, because of the fear of being laughed at he will be more likely hesitant to introduce himself to others. Nicknames/pet names given to a person also affect his self-concept. If he does not outgrow the nickname, he may unconsciously be a childish and dependent person. Additionally, a person can be annoyed when another person calls him inappropriate names. If you can relate to these situations, you are most likely having a hard time overcoming low self esteem. Be strong and be not affected by the perception of other people. It is a given fact that you can never please everybody. • Appearance. This is a great hindrance in overcoming low self esteem. Why? It is because a person is conscious enough to judge another based on appearance. Not all of us are gifted with the looks but it can definitely be improved. If you think your hair is in total disorder, visit a salon. Same goes with your acne problems, if your skin is unhealthy, visit a dermatologist. If you find these suggestions too costly, make it a point to come up with a simple beauty regime every night. Now, you have seen that it is possible for the preceding factors to affect your perception of yourself. These factors are presented not to mislead you, but to give you a better idea on how to develop your self esteem. Please bear in mind that your life will be gloomy if you solely base your self-worth on the things that you encounter. Your life is a gift. Start valuing your uniqueness and the qualities you’ve been blessed with and soon your self esteem will slowly but surely start to improve.