Explain how the two factors can influence self awareness and self esteem
1. Environmental factors: The environment in which we live plays a crucial role in shaping our self-awareness and self-esteem. This includes our family, friends, school, workplace, and society at large.
a. Family and upbringing: Our parents, siblings, and extended family shape the way we perceive ourselves from an early age. Children who grow up in a supportive and nurturing environment tend to have higher self-awareness and self-esteem, as they are encouraged to explore their identity, values, and interests. In contrast, children who grow up in a critical or unsupportive environment may struggle with self-awareness and have low self-esteem, as they are constantly made to feel inadequate or unworthy.
b. Social relationships: Interactions with friends and peers can also have a significant impact on our self-awareness and self-esteem. Positive relationships, where we feel valued and respected, can enhance our self-image and boost our self-esteem. Alternatively, negative relationships, where we feel judged or excluded, can diminish our self-worth and hinder our self-awareness.
c. Education and workplace: Experiences at school and in the workplace can also greatly influence self-awareness and self-esteem. Encouraging and supportive educators or co-workers can foster a positive self-image and boost self-esteem. In contrast, overly critical or negative feedback can hinder our self-awareness and negatively impact our self-esteem.
2. Personal factors: Our personal experiences, beliefs, values, and attitudes also contribute to our self-awareness and self-esteem.
a. Past experiences: Our past experiences play a significant role in shaping our self-perception. Successes and achievements can contribute to a positive self-image and high self-esteem. On the other hand, failures and setbacks can lead to self-doubt and low self-esteem, particularly if we dwell on them or let them define our self-worth.
b. Beliefs and values: Our deeply ingrained beliefs and values can also significantly affect how we see ourselves. If we adhere to rigid or unrealistic standards or if we allow others' opinions to determine our worth, our self-awareness and self-esteem may suffer.
c. Personal growth and self-reflection: Engaging in self-reflection and personal growth can help us develop a greater understanding of ourselves, our strengths, and weaknesses, thereby enhancing self-awareness. As we discover and accept our true selves, our self-esteem is more likely to increase. In contrast, lack of self-reflection and growth can leave us with a limited understanding of who we are, contributing to low self-esteem.
d. Mental health and well-being: Lastly, our overall mental health and well-being can profoundly impact both our self-awareness and self-esteem. Conditions like anxiety or depression can lead to distorted self-perceptions and low self-esteem, making it difficult for us to see ourselves accurately and value our worth.
In conclusion, both environmental and personal factors significantly influence our self-awareness and self-esteem. Understanding and addressing these factors can help us develop a more accurate and positive self-image, leading to increased self-esteem and overall well-being.