Self-esteem is the amount of value and worth we place on ourselves, how much we appreciate and like ourselves. A lot of people struggle with low self-esteem due to past experiences and continued negative self-talk. It can wreck havoc in a person’s mood, communication, relationships, school and work, level of confidence, and general sense of well-being. Here are some common signs of low self-esteem:

1. Blame yourself for everything.

2. Think you are not good enough, so you pick on yourself for everything, including the way you think, feel, look, behave.

3. Get angry and defensive when others blame or criticize you, even though you do this regularly to yourself

4. Difficulty accepting compliments or praise

5. Fear rejection

6. Take things personally

7. Feel like a victim, feel powerless and helpless

8. Scared of making mistakes

9. Expect yourself to do everything perfectly

10. Think your most important successes are not a direct result of your effort

11. Shame, feel bad about who you are, feel like hiding

12. Difficulty setting boundaries, allow others to take advantage of you or abuse you

13. Rely on external things to help you feel better about yourself but it doesn’t last

Even if all these signs apply you, it is okay. It takes courage and commitment to recognize that and not run away. This can be the starting point of your journey to increase your self-esteem, and more importantly, to accept and love yourself..