Self-Confidence VS Self-Esteem
An Online Therapist Explains the Difference
While the two terms may seem interchangeable, self-esteem and self-confidence have subtle differences. Their similarities do overlap, however, their meanings are not quite the same.
Having a healthy sense of both leads to a more fulfilling, and satisfying life. This can be easier said than done, though.
Can you have low self-confidence but high self-esteem? What about vice versa? How does our self-image relate to our self-esteem?
Let’s talk about the similarities and differences between self-esteem and self-confidence. Then I will give you some tools I use as an online therapist in Virginia that will build them both up. Allowing you to walk with your head held high.
What Is Self-Esteem?
Self-esteem is the way you see yourself internally, as well as the level at which you appreciate and value yourself.
Not only does self-esteem relate to our inner sense of self, but it’s also invisible to the outside world.
Self-esteem changes and develops throughout our lives based on experiences and growth. When someone exhibits high self-esteem, they are secure and feel deserving of respect from others. On the other hand, someone with low self-esteem may lack the ability to recognize who they are and limit what they believe they can accomplish.
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Self-Esteem
Having a healthy sense of self-esteem by no means makes you cocky, or arrogant. In fact, it’s been shown to increase levels of motivation, improve overall mental wellbeing, and enhance your entire quality of life. On the other hand, someone struggling with a low sense of self-esteem may struggle with mental health.
Low Self-Esteem
Those with low self-esteem may exhibit several symptoms such as:
Feeling unworthy of their wants or needs
Overly critical of themselves or others
Constantly afraid of letting others down
Have difficulty setting boundaries
Low self-esteem often stems from difficulties or trauma in childhood to ongoing chronic stress. Thankfully, self-esteem is entirely fixable, and by putting in the work, you too can become someone with a healthy sense of self-esteem.
High Self-Esteem
A few traits exhibited by someone with high self-esteem may look like this:
Assertive, but respectful in their wants and needs
Ability to make confident decisions
Have open, secure relationships
Aren’t overly critical of themselves or others
Possess an attitude of humility
Aren’t afraid of rejection or failure
Speak the truth without fear
You can develop healthy self-esteem by engaging in self-care practices that nurture your inner well-being. As well as spending time with people who build you up and gaining support through online therapy in Virginia.
What Is Self-Confidence?
Self-confidence is focused on the level of trust you have in your own abilities, skills, and flaws. Think of it as more the external thoughts and behaviors that stem from either a healthy or unhealthy level of self-esteem.
Self-confidence relates to your level of belief in achieving goals, handling difficult situations, and setting boundaries. It’s important to note that self-confidence can become warped by our own perception of ourselves. If we have low self-esteem, we may exhibit symptoms of low self-confidence. Even if we are entirely capable of achieving our dreams and desires.
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Self-Confidence:
Unhealthy self-confidence also often stems from an unsupportive family environment, difficult childhood events, or growing up in an overly critical household.
Unhealthy Levels of Self-Confidence
Someone with unhealthy levels of self-confidence may show signs such as:
Inability to make decisions
Feelings of self-doubt
Difficulty trusting others
Overly sensitive emotions
Feelings of inferiority compared to others
Being afraid of failure
Low self-confidence not only affects mental health but can cause errors in our thinking. When we begin to believe the lies we tell ourselves, we start to suffer in every area of our lives. However, as with self-esteem, self-confidence can be mended with determination and desire. Working with an online therapist in Virginia can help you in your journey to improving your self-confidence.
High Self-Confidence
High self-confidence may look like:
Having a balanced view of yourself and your abilities
Ability to make strong, confident decisions
Overall positivity about life, despite obstacles
Not being easily offended
The ability to speak with authority
Willing to take initiative
Enjoying the chance to challenge themself
Healthy levels of self-confidence can be achieved by learning how to set boundaries with others, and engaging in activities that are challenging while investing your time into things you’re passionate about. If you need help knowing where to start VDC Counseling can help through online therapy in Virginia.
Final Thoughts From An Online Therapist
Self-esteem relates to the way we view our inner selves. It’s our general sense of value and worth about who we are as a person. On the other hand, self-confidence describes our outward attitude towards what we can achieve, how sound our judgment is, and our ability to make healthy decisions. While these terms have many similarities that can quickly blur the lines, they differ in their visibility to the outside world.
Having low levels of both can bring about mental health struggles, lack of motivation, weak boundaries, surface-level relationships, and more. The benefits of investing in yourself are endless. If you feel inadequate, or unable to make solid decisions, it may be time to consider taking action to build yourself back up.
Ready to Start Online Therapy in Virginia?
If you recognized the symptoms of low self-confidence or low self-esteem listed above then it’s time to take action. As an online therapist, I can guide you as you invest in yourself and your mental health. In order to get started in online therapy in Virginia or Maryland at VDC Counseling follow these steps.
Reach out to speak with an online therapist in Arlington, VA
Schedule your first appointment for online therapy
Starting living life with a healthy level of self-esteem and self-confidence
Other Services We Offer In Arlington, VA
Thanks to online therapy we are able to offer several different types of therapy in both Maryland and Virginia. As an online therapist I provide anxiety treatment, depression treatment, and individual therapy for work-life balance. As well as trauma therapy, EMDR therapy, and therapy for burnout and stress relief. Additionaly I provide therapy in Italian in Arlington, VA.
