The difference between low self-esteem and high self-esteem

The core difference between low self-esteem and high self-esteem lies in the individual's perception and acceptance of self-worth, mainly manifested in five dimensions: self-evaluation stability, interpersonal relationship patterns, emotional regulation ability, goal setting tendency, and failure attribution style.

1. Self evaluation stability

High self-esteem individuals typically have stable self-awareness, are less susceptible to external evaluations, and can objectively view their own strengths and weaknesses. Individuals with low self-esteem have greater fluctuations in self-evaluation and are prone to denying their self-worth due to negative feedback or short-term setbacks from others, often accompanied by an excessive tendency towards reflection.

2. Interpersonal Relationship Model

High self-esteem individuals tend to have equal interactions in relationships, are able to naturally express their needs, and set boundaries. Individuals with low self-esteem may exhibit pleasing behavior or social avoidance, be abnormally sensitive to rejection signals, and have a psychological need for excessive dependence on others' approval.

3. Emotional regulation ability

Individuals with high self-esteem tend to use problem-solving strategies when facing stress, and their emotional recovery cycle is relatively short. People with low self-esteem are more likely to fall into anxiety and depression, develop a strong sense of shame towards criticism, and may alleviate psychological conflicts through self deprecation.

4. Goal setting tendency

High self-esteem individuals tend to set challenging goals and view difficulties as opportunities for growth. People with low self-esteem often choose low goals or perfectionist standards, the former stemming from underestimating their abilities, while the latter is actually a defense mechanism to avoid experiencing failure.

5. Attribution of Failure

High self-esteem individuals tend to attribute failure to external factors or specific behaviors that can be improved. Individuals with low self-esteem tend to personalize their attributions, linking setbacks to their self-worth and forming a negative cognitive cycle. Improving self-esteem requires establishing an objective self-awareness framework, which can be gradually adjusted through recording successful experiences, challenging negative thinking, and developing advantageous areas. Try practicing mindfulness in daily life to reduce the frequency of self-criticism and practice self-expression in a safe interpersonal environment. When long-term low self-esteem is accompanied by impaired social functioning, it is recommended to seek professional psychological counseling intervention. Cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance commitment therapy have significant effects on reshaping the self-esteem system.