Definition of self-esteem

Self-esteem refers to the overall subjective emotional evaluation of one’s own worth. It’s the decision made by an individual as an attitude towards the self. Self-esteem encompasses beliefs about oneself (for example, “I am unloved,” “I am worthy”) as well as emotional states, such as triumph, despair, pride, and shame.

At its core, self-esteem is made up of two primary components:

Self-Competence:

This reflects the confidence in one’s ability to cope with life’s challenges. It involves a sense of mastery and achievement in effectively navigating the world, solving problems, and achieving goals. High self-competence means you trust in your ability to face life’s challenges, make decisions, and assert control over your circumstances.

Self-Worth:

This aspect of self-esteem pertains to feeling worthy of love, happiness, and success, independent of one’s accomplishments or failures. It’s the intrinsic value you place on yourself as a person, which can be influenced by external affirmations but is ideally sustained from within, regardless of outside validation or lack thereof.

Self-esteem is not static; it can fluctuate over time and across different domains of life, such as academic achievement, professional success, or personal relationships. The development of self-esteem is a dynamic process influenced by life experiences and the attainment of personal goals. Enhancing self-esteem involves fostering a realistic and compassionate self-view, setting achievable goals, and building supportive relationships that affirm one’s sense of self-worth.

Positive self-esteem is characterized by respect for oneself and others, confidence in one’s abilities, and resilience in the face of challenges. Conversely, low self-esteem is often marked by self-doubt, feelings of inadequacy, and a critical self-view, which can lead to a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal.

Intrinsic and extrinsic factors

Central to the concept of self-esteem is the distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic factors that contribute to its development.

Intrinsic factors include an individual’s genetic predisposition, temperament, and personality traits that affect their self-perception and self-evaluation processes.

Extrinsic factors involve external influences such as familial relationships, social interactions, cultural norms, and societal pressures, all of which play a critical role in shaping one’s self-esteem throughout life.

Developing a healthy, balanced self-esteem is crucial for overall well-being. It affects our choices and interactions in everyday life, influencing our relationships, academic and professional success, and willingness to take on new challenges. Strategies for enhancing self-esteem include engaging in positive self-talk, setting and achieving realistic goals, surrounding oneself with a supportive social network, and practicing self-compassion and resilience in the face of setbacks.

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