While you are reading this article, you’re probably blaming yourself for your lack of confidence or envious of successful people. That is understandable; this post will enumerate the 10 most common sources of low self-esteem and their solutions:
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Developmental Disorder
Developmental disorders refer to brain function disorders. Do you often find yourself saying any of the following?
“I can’t concentrate on one thing.”
“I keep forgetting things.”
“I can’t remember where I placed the controller for the latest drone I just bought.”
This is an invisible problem that can easily go unnoticed. It can be challenging because the individual often wants to act like others but fails. This can easily lead to stress. Seeking the assistance of a therapist is recommended to get proper diagnosis and treatments.
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Distorted Thinking
People with cognitive distortion may mistake a compliment for sarcasm. The statement “you’re a too serious person” could mean having a sincere or uninteresting personality. But in any case, it’s wrong to take compliments as a mockery then get depressed. If you are unsure, ask the other person what they mean.
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Emotional Wound
Yes, people can be depressed by the same thing repeatedly. For instance, a person who grew apart from their best friend can become depressed and might not get over it. This can leave them feeling like they cannot trust anyone.
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Perfectionism
It is related to people with high standards. Perfectionists are prone to the idea of doing things perfectly the first time. Then they get depressed when they fail to meet their own expectation. Changing your mindset and leaving room for improvement is one of the keys.
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Worrying About What Others Think
People who care too much about what other people think are prone to self-doubt. We have a different perspective. What’s interesting to you might mean ridiculous to another. You cannot always expect people to agree with or appreciate you. The bottom line is not to depend your value on others’ opinions.
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Losing Objectivity
If you can’t see things objectively, you more likely to get depressed. For instance, when a friend is in a bad mood, don’t assume and ask, “Have I offended you in any way?” If you can’t see the situation objectively, you might think that it’s always your fault. Before you associate something with yourself, think about the other possibilities.
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Comparing Yourself with Others
Individuals who compare themselves with others develop insecurity. They always wonder why the grass next door is blue, and theirs is pink. They only focus on the good quality of other people, which is more than meets the eye.
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Inferiority Complex
People with inferiority complex believe that no matter what they do, they will never be good enough. This can lead to isolation and dependent personality disorder.
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Bad Environment
Your environment can also cause stress. If you are often exposed to toxic people, you will end up feeling drained. Try taking a break to clear your mind. If you believe that the environment is not doing you any good, consider leaving.
It is said that self-affirmation is the best way to counter self-doubt. It allows you to develop a positive view of yourself and the world. But it’s not an overnight process. You need patience and consistency, but it sure can transform your mind. Louise Hay, a motivational author, comes up with the best self-affirmations. Here are some of them:
- Life loves me!
- All is well in my world. Everything is working out for my highest good. Out of this situation, only good will come. I am safe!
- It’s only a thought, and a thought can be changed.
- The point of power is always in the present moment.
- Every thought we think is creating our future.
- I am in the process of positive change.
- I am comfortable looking in the mirror, saying, “I love you. I really love you.”
Repetition is the key. Psychologists say that the brain can create a new pathway to develop a new habit through it.
In addition to self-affirmation, you should also:
- Stop blaming yourself (self-bullying).
- Quit playing the blaming games
- Appreciate whatever you have today
Self-doubt is often the product of negative thinking. If you want to see a positive transformation, you should first change your mind. You’ll never know what the person you are jealous of is going through. They seem to have a perfect life, but it could be the other way around. We all have our own battles to deal with.