Self-Worth, Sociometer
What Affects Self-Worth?
People who experience a steady diet of disapproval from important others—family, supervisors, friends, teachers—might have feelings of low self-esteem. Yet the healthy individual is able to weather off-putting evaluations.
Each person's experience is different, but over the course of the lifespan, self-esteem seems to rise and fall in predictable, systematic ways. Research suggests that self-esteem grows, by varying degrees, until age 60, when it remains steady before beginning to decline in old age.
Self-esteem can influence life in myriad ways, from academic and professional success to relationships and mental health. Self-esteem, however, is not an immutable characteristic; successes or setbacks, both personal and professional, can fuel fluctuations in feelings of self-worth.
Feelings of high or low self-worth often start in childhood . Family life that is riddled with disapproval can follow a person into adult life. Low self-esteem can also become a problem because of a poor school environment or a dysfunctional workplace. Likewise, an unhappy relationship can also alter a person’s self-worth.
How to Reach Your Full Potential
Self-actualization represents the pursuit of reaching one’s full potential. The concept is rooted in a theory established in 1943 by Abraham Maslow. The psychologist set forth a hierarchy of psychological needs, illustrating an order of human motivation .
At the base of Maslow’s motivational pyramid lie physiological needs, such as the air we breathe and the food we consume. Once those needs are met, it is possible to pursue needs for safety, love and belonging, and self-worth.
Self-actualization occurs when the more basic needs are met or in the process of being met, and it becomes possible to strive to add meaning and personal and social fulfillment to existence—through creativity , intellectual growth, and social progress. As Maslow himself stated, “What a man can be, he must be. This need we may call self-actualization.”
The world may have expectations for you: an important, high-paying job, an ideal set of 2.5 children, a luxury car. Yet you do not have to buy into thinking that you are worthless without these things. Imperfection is perfectly fine . Also, setting your own goals and not following someone else’s will help.
The Signs of Strong Self-Esteem
The confident person is easily spotted and commands attention . But there's a healthy balance between too little and too much self-worth. Here are some signs that an individual has the right dose.
The words you needed as a child may still echo in their absence. Discover how emotional neglect shapes you and how to begin giving yourself what was missing.
The words you needed as a child may still echo in their absence. Discover how emotional neglect shapes you and how to begin giving yourself what was missing.
When we choose a small ethical action, we tend to create a potential pattern of success. This pattern becomes the evidence from which self-belief grows.
Explore More About Self-Esteem
For a comprehensive understanding of self-esteem, read our complete guide: