Self-esteem is a fundamental aspect of a person's psychological health. It refers to the assessment one makes of oneself, influencing the way we perceive ourselves, relate to others and face life's challenges. Low self-esteem can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life, affecting their emotional well-being and social interactions. In this article, we will explore four common symptoms associated with low self-esteem and how to recognize them so you can effectively address this problem.
1. Excessive self-criticism
One of the most obvious symptoms of low self-esteem is excessive self-criticism. People with low self-esteem tend to be very hard on themselves, judging themselves negatively in almost all situations. This negative thinking pattern can manifest itself in phrases such as "I always make mistakes", "I never do anything right" or "I am a failure". Excessive self-criticism can be paralyzing, as it hinders a person's ability to accept their mistakes and learn from them.
The problem with excessive self-criticism is that it reinforces a distorted and negative image of oneself, which which perpetuates low self-esteem. People who constantly criticize themselves tend to feel insecure, devalued, and undeserving of love or success. Additionally, this self-criticism can lead to a negative feedback loop, where the person feels worse about themselves every time they make a mistake, which in turn increases their level of self-criticism.
How to recognize the mistake excessive self-criticism?
To identify if you are experiencing excessive self-criticism, pay attention to your thoughts and words. Do you have a critical inner voice that constantly judges you? Do you find it difficult to accept compliments or praise from others? Do you feel like you never live up to your own expectations? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be dealing with low self-esteem and excessive self-criticism.
2. Avoidance of challenges
Another common symptom of low self-esteem is the tendency to avoid challenges or situations that involve a risk of failure. People with low self-esteem often feel insecure about their abilities and fear not living up to expectations, so they prefer not to face situations that test their abilities. This avoidance of challenges can manifest itself in different areas of life, such as work, studies, interpersonal relationships or social activities.
Avoidance of challenges can be especially harmful, as it impedes personal growth. and professional of the person. By avoiding facing difficult situations, the person deprives themselves of the opportunity to learn, improve their skills and strengthen their self-confidence. Furthermore, this attitude of avoiding challenges can lead to stagnation in life, perpetuating the feeling of inadequacy and lack of worth.
How to recognize the avoidance of challenges?
If you notice If you tend to avoid challenging or anxiety-inducing situations, you may be experiencing low self-esteem. Reflect on what situations cause you fear or insecurity and analyze if you have avoided facing them in the past. Observe if you prefer to stay in your comfort zone and reject opportunities for growth and personal improvement. Avoidance of challenges can be an indication of a lack of confidence in your abilities and potential, which is often related to low self-esteem.
3. Constant need for external validation
People with low self-esteem often rely excessively on external validation to feel valuable and accepted. They constantly seek approval and recognition from others, since they are not capable of valuing themselves. This constant need for external validation can manifest itself in behaviors such as seeking the approval of others at all times, comparing oneself unfavorably to others, or feeling insecure if one does not receive praise or recognition.
Relying too much on validation. External validation can be problematic, since the person's self-esteem is conditioned by the opinions of others. This can lead to a cycle of insecurity and anxiety, where the person constantly feels vulnerable to the possibility of being rejected or criticized. Furthermore, this constant need for validation can interfere with interpersonal relationships, generating emotional dependence and making autonomy and self-acceptance difficult.
How to recognize the constant need for external validation?
Yes You feel that your self-esteem is conditioned by the opinions of others and you depend excessively on external validation, it is likely that you are experiencing low self-esteem. Observe if you constantly seek the approval of others in your actions and decisions, if you are deeply affected by criticism or rejection from others, or if your mood fluctuates depending on external evaluation. The constant need for external validation can be an indication of a distorted self-image and a lack of self-acceptance.
4. Difficulties in establishing limits
People with low self-esteem often have difficulties in establishing healthy limits in their interpersonal relationships. They may feel unable to say no, to express their needs and desires, or to defend their rights and opinions. This lack of boundaries may be due to a fear of confrontation or rejection, as well as an underlying belief that one does not deserve respect or consideration from others.
Difficulty in setting boundaries may result from in toxic or abusive relationships, where the person with low self-esteem is subjected to situations that go against their values and well-being. Furthermore, the lack of limits can generate resentment, frustration and a deterioration in the person's self-image, since they feel unable to defend their own interests. Establishing healthy limits is essential to maintain healthy and respectful relationships, as well as to strengthen self-esteem and self-concept.
How to recognize difficulties in establishing limits?
If you find it difficult to say no, express your needs or defend your rights in your interpersonal relationships, it is likely that you are experiencing difficulties in establishing limits. Reflect on how you feel in your relationships with others, whether you feel comfortable saying what you think and feel or whether you are forced to please others to avoid conflict. Notice if you find it difficult to establish clear limits in situations that make you uncomfortable or uncomfortable. The lack of limits can indicate low self-esteem and the need to strengthen your ability to assert yourself and defend your rights.
In conclusion, low self-esteem can manifest itself in different ways, affecting the way we perceive ourselves. ourselves and how we interact with the world around us. Recognizing the symptoms associated with low self-esteem is the first step to addressing this problem and working to strengthen self-esteem and self-concept. If you identify any of the symptoms mentioned in this article in your own life, do not hesitate to seek professional support, as self-esteem is a key aspect of our emotional and psychological well-being.