Title: Why It's Important to Have High Self-Esteem
Headings: Why It's Important to Have High Self-Esteem
Why It's Important to Have High Self-Esteem
What Is Self-Esteem?
Self-Esteem
Self-Esteem vs. Depression
High-Self Esteem
Why High Self-Esteem Matters
Self-Esteem and Prosocial Behavior
Self-Esteem and Stress
High Self-Esteem Boosts Overall Well-Being
The Risks of Low Self-Esteem
Reactivity
Feeling Down vs. Poor Self-Esteem
Susceptibility to Depression
Risky Behaviors
Low Self-Confidence
Can You Have Too Much Self-Esteem?
High Self-Esteem vs. Arrogance and Narcissism
Contributing Factors of Low Self-Esteem
Cultivating High Self-Esteem
When to Get Help
Get Advice From The Verywell Mind Podcast
Ways to Improve Self-Esteem
Accept Compliments
Give Yourself a Break
Love Yourself—Flaws And All
Value the Person You Are
Recognize the Importance of High Self-Esteem
Seek Support
Start a Gratitude Journal
Take Note of Your Thoughts
Think of Yourself as a Friend
Work on Yourself
A Word From Verywell
Article Sources

Content: You're also better able to cope with stress, anxiety, and pressure, whether from school, work, home, or peers. 6 ﻿
Instead, rather than feeling hopeless, stuck, or unworthy due to any perceived "failings," a person with high self-esteem is more likely to look for what they can change or improve upon than to feel like a "failure" or hopeless. Conversely, someone with low self-esteem is more likely to become entrenched in negative feelings about themself. In fact, research shows that feeling positive and respectful about yourself, particularly as a child, goes a long way in helping you adapt and adjust to the challenges of life. 7 ﻿
A healthy self-concept and self-respect can enable you to realize that it's not the end of the world if something goes wrong, someone rejects you, you make a mistake, or you have some faults. Self-Esteem and Prosocial Behavior
High self-esteem is also linked to prosocial behavior (actions with the intent to benefit others, such as generosity and qualities like empathy), flexibility, and positive familial relationships. In fact, a 2014 study found that college students with higher self-esteem and more loving and supportive relationships with their families were more successful at school and adapted better to the social adjustment of living in a new environment. 8 ﻿
Self-Esteem and Stress
How you experience stress is also strongly related to your level of self-esteem. Prosocial behavior (which, as noted above, is more likely with higher self-esteem) is known to reduce the negative impact of stressors on daily life, helping you to manage stress more effectively. 9 ﻿ Studies have also found a positive relationship between positive self-esteem and motivation to accomplish goals, self-efficacy, and self-control.