How We Feel About Ourselves Affects Our Emotional Well-Being
- Micah Shapiro
- Feb 21
- 4 min read
It’s easy to overlook just how much self-esteem affects our daily lives because we're not always aware of it. But it's there, hovering in the background and shaping our emotions, decision-making, and mood. From high to low, self-esteem is inextricably linked with our sense of well-being.
What is Self-Esteem?
Self-esteem refers to how we think of ourselves, how much we value ourselves, and what we believe about our abilities and potential. It ranges from high to low and depends on a combination of our upbringing, experiences, relationships, and accomplishments. Depending on external circumstances, self-esteem fluctuates over our lifespan.
People with high self-esteem generally have a positive view of themselves and feel capable, competent, and worthy of love. They're usually more resilient and positive about life in general. Conversely, people with low self-esteem often contend with self-doubt, feel inadequate, and struggle with difficult emotions like shame, guilt, or insecurity, all of which affect mood, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Self-Esteem and Mood
1. Positive Self-Esteem Boosts Positive Mood
Having healthy self-esteem makes it easier to approve of yourself. You’re more likely to think positively and maintain an optimistic outlook on life. That's because high self-esteem promotes self-acceptance, self-compassion, and self-efficacy. You're more likely to view setbacks as temporary challenges and opportunities for growth rather than reflections of your worth.
2. Low Self-Esteem Leads to Unpleasant Emotions
Low self-esteem is a breeding ground for cognitive distortions, which often elicit feelings like guilt, shame, hopelessness, and despair. These emotions reinforce themselves and cycle into emotional distress.
For example, a minor failure like missing a deadline or arguing with a friend can make you internalize thoughts like, “I always mess things up. I’m such a failure.” Low moods, such as irritability, sadness, or anxiety, are bound to follow and can affect your relationships and overall life satisfaction.
3. Self-Esteem Influences How We Respond to Stress
People with high self-esteem tend to respond more effectively to stress and adversity because they believe in their ability to handle challenges.
Conversely, people with low self-esteem often feel less capable of managing stress because they don't believe they can. This is why people with low self-esteem are more susceptible to depression, anxiety, or irritability.
4. Perfectionism and Self-Esteem
People with low self-esteem often resort to perfectionism as a way to overcome their perceived deficits. However, because it's usually impossible to meet impossibly high standards, perfectionists often experience chronic stress, frustration, dissatisfaction, and mood swings, depending on whether or not things turn out as expected. The cycle of perfectionism can contribute to long-term emotional distress and an overall negative mood.
5. Social Comparison and Mood Fluctuations
People with low self-esteem are more likely to measure their worth against others, which can make them feel jealous, resentful, or inadequate. If you often feel "lesser" than your peers or friends, you're more likely to experience depressed mood, anxiety, or frustration.
On the other hand, when you have a strong sense of self-worth, you’re more focused on personal growth and less focused on other people's "better" qualities, and this can result in a more stable and positive mood.
How Improving Self-Esteem Can Improve Your Mood
Improving your self-esteem is one of the most effective ways to create long-lasting improvements in your mood and emotional well-being. Here are some strategies for boosting self-esteem and, in turn, improving mood:
1. Practice Self-Compassion
Being kind to yourself is essential for healthy self-esteem, which, in turn, makes it easier to be kind to yourself. Practice self-compassion by treating yourself the way you'd treat a close friend. Mistakes are a normal part of life, so try not to beat yourself up when they occur.
2. Challenge Negative Thoughts
Low self-esteem often stems from negative, distorted thinking. Learn to recognize and challenge these thoughts. When you catch yourself thinking, “I’m not good enough”, try to replace that thought with something more balanced and realistic, like, “I have strengths and weaknesses, but I am worthy just as I am.”
3. Set Realistic Expectations
Perfectionism can undermine self-esteem. Instead of aiming for perfection, set achievable, realistic goals. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and allow yourself to enjoy the journey rather than focusing solely on the outcome.
4. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences
The people around you can significantly impact your self-esteem and mood. Surround yourself with supportive, positive individuals who appreciate you for who you are. Limit your time with those who bring negativity or are overly critical.
5. Practice Gratitude
Cultivating a gratitude practice can shift your focus from what's wrong in your life to what's going well. Regularly acknowledging your strengths and accomplishments can improve your self-esteem and help you feel more positive and grounded.
Start Overcoming Low Self-Esteem in Des Plaines, IL
You deserve to feel confident, valued, and empowered in your life. If self-doubt and negative thoughts are holding you back, now is the time to take action. Reach out today to start your journey toward greater self-acceptance and emotional well-being. Start therapy with Shapiro Psychotherapy Associates PLLC by following these simple steps:
Learn More About Me.
Start cultivating a stronger sense of self today!
Other Services Offered with Shapiro Psychotherapy Associates, PLLC
Support for self-esteem counseling and changes isn't the only service offered at Shapiro Psychotherapy Associates, PLLC. I offer a variety of therapy services to support different parts of your life. I also provide Anxiety Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Couples Therapy, Life Transitions Therapy, and more. With my extensive experience and specialized training in multiple therapy modalities, I can customize my approach to meet your specific needs. Reach out today to begin your journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
Comments