8 Factors That Influence Your Self-Esteem

There are many factors in life that influence your self-esteem. These factors can either build you up, or bring you down.

Childhood

Your childhood is one of the main influences on your self-esteem.

When you are growing up, everyone around you has the potential to influence the person you become.

For example, children that grow up in chaotic home environments tend to have low self-esteem, often carrying this burden their entire lives.

Society

The pressures of society are a main contributor to low self-esteem.

Everyone is pressured to live a certain way, dress a certain way, have a certain kind of job and act accordingly.

These pressures can weigh on you, often leading to emotional despair.

Media

Our absolute obsession with the media, whether it is print ads, television, or social media, definitely undermines healthy emotional development, especially in today’s youth.

The ready access to social media is a major influence on young minds to look or act like celebrities, public figures, or even their peers.

It can be hard not to compare yourself to others even as an adult and overwhelming for young people struggling with identity issues.

Beliefs

Religions and belief systems can contribute to your sense of self-worth.

Your means of worship can build you up, filling your life with love and joy.

Conversely, some religions suggest that people are inherently bad (sinners), despite the quality of their lifestyles.

While most belief systems are not designed to control and oppress individuals, sometimes their practices and ideas can negatively influence self-esteem.

Friends and Family

The people you spend time with have a big influence on your self-esteem.

Your friends can help you develop a positive self-image, or they can bring you down.

Some people even humiliate each other to build themselves up, whether or not they are aware of what they are doing.

The family that you grew up with, as well as the family that you come home to, can have a profound effect on your self-esteem.

For instance, feelings of inadequacy may arise when trying to providing for your family, while a family that works together and builds each other up can contribute to healthy self-esteem.

Romantic Involvements

All relationships can influence your self-esteem, but romantic relationships tend to have the biggest effect.

Being in a happy and loving relationship can boost your self-esteem.

However, a negative relationship can diminish you.

For example, a bad break-up or being left by a partner can weigh heavily on your confidence, negatively affecting you emotionally.

Work Environment

You spend so much time at work or school, it’s no wonder these environments influence every aspect of your life, including your self-esteem.

A stressful and overly demanding job can often contribute to low self-esteem, while a productive and encouraging workplace can help you grow stronger.

Health

Your overall health can also impact to your self-esteem.

Taking care of yourself, mind, body and spirit can strengthen all aspects of your charater, boosting feelings of self-worth.

Summary

Overall, there are many factors that can influence your self-esteem.

Every part of your life influences how you feel about yourself.

But, the person with the most control over your self-esteem is you.

Practice giving yourself good messages and avoid negativity to build up your self-esteem.

If you do this, your desire for inner peace will become a reality.

Yours,

Albert