There are many terms which are used in connection with the term low self-esteem.
A poor self-image basically means that the picture in a person's mind of how they view their physical attributes or their body self-image and their success in mastering their environment, e.g. success, abilities, intelligence and their overall self-worth can be drastically distorted by the image they hold of themselves.
Self-image is often described as a personal mirror which drastically alters in size and shape into non-truthful proportions which in no way resemble how a person actually appears.
This self-perception of how their view themselves, their own perception of how others see them, and the thoughts and beliefs they have about themselves, their environment, and they future are affected in three main areas and these are:
Self-respect
Self-worth
Self-acceptance
Therefore, the greater the distance between the ideal self and the real self the lower the self-esteem and the smaller the gap is between the two, then the higher their self-esteem quotient.
When they hold negative and dis-empowering views and beliefs about themselves, this keep them from achieving the goals they set by being critical, punishing, and constantly negatively evaluating their abilities and this will eventually lead to poor self-esteem.
Low self-esteem usually starts in childhood. Our teachers, friends, siblings, parents, and even the media send us positive and negative messages about ourselves.
For some reason, the message that you are not good enough is the one that stays with you.
Perhaps we found it difficult to live up to other people's expectations of us, or to our own expectations.
Stress and difficult life events, such as serious illness or a bereavement, can have a negative effect on self-esteem.
If we have low self-esteem or confidence then we may hide ourselves away from social situations, stop trying new things also avoid things we find challenging.
In the short term, avoiding challenging and difficult situations might make us feel safe.
Low self- esteem is affecting every part of our lives so it is a good time to change that all.