As humans, we are not perfect. We might possess the best qualities; a perfect set of teeth, good physique, a nice complexion, but still, something will be missing. The fact that we are not perfect, breeds instances of insecurities and low self-esteem. When you start perceiving yourself negatively, looking down on your body or your self worth, these are symptoms of low-self esteem. It is like an inner voice that stays in your head and whispers, “You are not good enough,” or it can even go further to call you a loser. Low self-esteem can affect confidence. One of the reasons people shy away from public speaking is because they have low-self esteem. For instance, I have a friend who wears glasses and cannot see well without them. Throughout her high school days, she was mocked and teased by friends for always wearing glasses. They nicknamed her, “four eyes.” Now, she avoids public gatherings because her self esteem has been damaged, almost beyond repair.
Not only can low-self esteem affect confidence, but it can also affect overall well-being. When you have a voice in your head constantly telling you that you are not good enough or inadequate, it could lead to psychological damage, and in worst cases, suicide. I have heard stories of people who committed suicide because they just couldn't take the negative thoughts anymore and had to let it all go. With my experiences and the many talks I have had with people, I have concluded that the top cause of low self-esteem is bullying. Do you remember that kind in your elementary or high school who couldn't go a day without teasing people or dashing out negative comments? That's where it all starts. During my elementary school days, one of my classmates had to transfer to another school because other kids wouldn't stop calling him “fat” and comparing him to a pig.
Today’s inleo prompt asks us what strategies can be used to overcome low self esteem. One of the best ways to tackle low self-esteem is by using the ng reversed psychology. I once had a conversation with @princessbusayo on Neoxian City Discord. Princess watches all kinds of horror movies. I asked her why she enjoys watching them, and she replied that she was once scared of things like that- horror movies and everything related to it, and to tackle her fears, she used her fears to tackle her fears. I believe we can apply this strategy to tackle low self-esteem. If you're scared of public speaking because you wear glasses and you are afraid of what people would say. Just try wearing glasses literally everywhere you go, particularly in public gatherings. Yes, use your fears to tackle your fears.
It is important to acknowledge that no one is perfectly made. However, it is equally important to know that even though you are not perfectly made, you are beautiful in so many other ways and that's what matters. Don’t let your negative inner voice win against you. If it says “you are nothing,” remind it that you have achieved so much and you still have enough time to achieve more.
It is also important to surround yourself with the right people- positive-minded people who make you feel good about yourself, not those who intentionally rub your insecurities on your face. There are many people out there who don’t care about what they say. Their job is to go out and point out negative things about people. “You are short,” "You are too fair or dark.” “Your teeth are too big.” All they know how to do is point out negative things. Some of them think they do it as a joke. No good and wise person would joke about people’s physical qualities. If you have people like this in your life, kick them out. Surround yourself with people who make you feel seen. Surround yourself with people who make you feel confident.
Battling low-self esteem is a gradual journey. It takes patience, consistency, and so many other factors.
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This is my entry to the inleo monthly prompts. The topic is; what strategies can be used to overcome low esteem.
Thanks for reading.
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