Self-Esteem
Difficulties with self-esteem and self-confidence can be incredibly challenging to cope with, and tend to interfere in our lives in very real ways. Self-esteem challenging can present through the criticism we have of ourselves around our body image, school and work abilities, relationships, and personality. Ultimately, our challenges with self-esteem can lead to low mood and decreased overall wellbeing, and can also prevent us from going after new experiences and opportunities if we convince ourselves that our negative self-talk is true. This is why it is so important to work on our self-esteem and confidence. Many of us carry narrative about ourselves and our abilities, and these messages often stem farther back into our pasts. Common narratives include:
"I am not good enough"
"I am undeserving" or "I don't deserve ___________"
"I am a failure"
"No one likes me"
"I'm asking for too much"
Exploring and understanding the origins of these narratives and what these messages are attempting to accomplish is an effective way to re-write your self-narrative to one filled with strength and compassion. This is not easy work, but it can truly transform your life in the present and looking into the future.