Self-image, self-worth and self-esteem…what’s the difference?
Have you ever wondered what the difference between self-image, self-worth and self-esteem is and if they are somehow connected? Well, wonder no more!
One of our wonderful Personal Leadership Program graduates, Bethany*, has unpacked two of the concepts for you…
“Self-image refers to the way you see yourself in relation to the world around you. Self-image is not the same as self-esteem. Self-esteem is how you see your worth and self-image is both how you see yourself and how you think the world sees you.
Self-image can be influenced by our relationships, experiences, and environment. Having a positive self-image is important for our mental wellbeing and it can lead to an increase in confidence, better relationships, and greater success.
A lot of people know they want to achieve a positive self-image; however, they don’t work towards it as much as they think they do and bring themselves down negatively.
When we have a negative self-image, it can lead to feelings of low self-worth, anxiety, and depression. It is important to work on developing a positive self-image through self-care, positive self-talk, and surrounding yourself with supportive people.
Self-image can change over time. We can build a more positive self-image and achieve goals by focusing on our strengths. We tend to compare ourselves to people who we think are better than us, however, instead of comparing negatively, we could do it positively.”
“We can never be satisfied if we compare what we don’t have to what people have when we know they worked hard for that too.”
It’s up to us to decide if we want to have a positive or negative self-image and it is up to us to work towards it.”
Signs of low self-esteem can include:
Poor confidence
A sense of lack of control
Feeling like you don’t measure up to other people
Difficulty asking for help or support
Anxiety and self doubt
Trouble accepting positive feedback
Inability to set healthy boundaries with others
So we’ve heard about self-image.
But how does self-worth connect with self-esteem?
Self-worth is how much you believe you matter as a person. I matter.
Self-esteem is how confident you feel in your abilities and what you can achieve. I can do this.
Self-image is how you see and think about yourself. This is who I am.
A few practical ways to improve your self-esteem,
self-image and self-worth:
Notice your strengths
Don’t focus on the things you can’t do. Focus on the things you know you’re good.
If you can’t think of any, ask a friend, caregiver or trusted teacher to help.
Set small, achievable goals
These don’t have to be huge, just a little something you can work towards.
Don’t forget to celebrate every win!
Challenge negative self-talk
Notice when a harsh thought pops into your head and replace it with something that feels kinder or more encouraging.
Focus on effort and growth
Trying hard matters more than striving for perfection.
Spend your time wisely
Invest your time and energy into people and activities that make you happy, build a sense of purpose and make you feel like respected, supported and valued.
Be kind to yourself
Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a friend.
To learn more about what our Personal Leadership Program tools can do for young people, visit How the Program Works — Youth Opportunities
*Student name changed to protect their identity