It is easy to dismiss poor self-esteem or a lack of self-confidence as a personality flaw or confuse it with humility. However, low self-esteem has long-term negative consequences, ranging from minor occurrences such as not speaking up at work meetings or in class to more serious risks such as relationship problems or self-destructive conduct. Recognizing the indications of poor Midtown East self-esteem is a crucial first step toward improving it. Some of the common signs and symptoms include:
- Negative Self Perception
Low self-esteem drives people to concentrate on their defects instead of their strengths, which leads to negative self-talk. Instead of building themselves up with good self-talk, they constantly seem to have something terrible to say about themselves. When disaster strikes, they fault themselves and always find a problem with some part of themselves, whether their looks, demeanor, or capabilities.
- Fear of Failure
Individuals with low self-esteem question their potential to succeed since they do not believe in their abilities. Though they may be afraid of failure, they generally avoid difficulties or give up without giving it their all. Such fear of failure could be observed in behaviors like acting out whenever things go amiss or finding ways to cover feelings of worthlessness. People may make justifications, blame other reasons, or minimize the task’s significance.
- Sensitive to Criticism
If you have poor self-esteem, you may be more sensitive to criticism, whether it comes from yourself or others. You simply perceive it as a confirmation of your inadequacies and that you are incompetent of doing anything correctly.
- Social Withdrawal
Low self-esteem manifests itself in the refusal to hang out with friends or attend other social gatherings, the cancellation of arranged plans at the last minute, and a general dislike of being around others. You might experience zero urge to have a conversation or speak in your life since it will only serve to exacerbate your existing anxiety and depression.
- Hostility
Portraying aggressive behavior or lashing out at others is a defensive strategy for somebody with low self-esteem. If you fear that you are going to be subjected to or ridiculed, attacking someone who criticizes you may indicate poor self-esteem.
- Lack of Boundaries
Persons who do not respect themselves may struggle to establish limits with others. They might fear or feel guilty that establishing or maintaining a barrier would cause people to dislike them. Whenever individuals do not recognize an individual’s time and space, this might lead to issues. Lack of respect not only causes tension, but it can also make a person feel unappreciated.
- Difficulty Prioritizing Or Speaking Up Your Feelings, Wants, And Needs
If you have low self-esteem, hardship prioritizing or speaking up your desires, including frequently prioritizing others’ needs over your own, is quite common. Maybe you persuade yourself that, in the face of somebody else’s needs, what you desire does not matter. Though caring for other people is a positive trait, it becomes a liability when it comes at the expense of your feelings, wants, and needs.
The moment you observe any of the following signs or symptoms in somebody you love or yourself, it is an indication that your self-esteem is jeopardized. Do not hesitate to seek professional help. At Healthy Minds NYC, the therapists offer you everything you require to enhance your self-esteem, whether through virtual or in-office psychotherapy appointments. If you have an underlying mental health concern, your specialist can design an individualized care plan to help you with your issue. Call the office or use the online scheduling tool to arrange an initial appointment today.
