Self-Esteem vs. Self-Worth vs. Self-Image: What’s the diffs?

Within the world of self development, the concepts of self-esteem, self-image, and self-worth often get used interchangeably. Unfortunately, even though these concepts are associated with one another, they are not interchangeable and have distinct differences despite all ‘sounding the same’. They are not just three umbrella terms can be used haphazardly. In fact, if you were to use an umbrella term for these concepts, it would be self-concept. As supported by the respected psychologist, Carl Rogers, self-image is a component of self-concept, along with self-esteem, self-worth, and one’s “ideal self” (McLeod, 2008).

So, here is a quick and easy way to help you wrap your head around these concepts. (*fingers crossed*)

Self-esteem can be defined as one’s overall evaluation and perception of one’s own abilities, qualities, and attributes. It encompasses the subjective judgment one holds about oneself in terms of competence, likability, and adequacy across various domains of life, such as academic, social, and personal achievements. Self-esteem is often derived from external sources such as achievements, social approval, or comparison with others.

Self-worth, on the other hand, is more deeply rooted in one’s sense of intrinsic value and self-acceptance — being happy with the person you are, with all of your “good” and “bad” qualities, irrespective of external accomplishments, social status, or validation from others. Self-worth is the subjective perception and evaluation of one’s inherent value, dignity, and worthiness as a human being, reflecting the unconditional regard for oneself, self-respect, and self-compassion. It involves accepting oneself unconditionally, acknowledging one’s inherent dignity and right to respect, love, fairness, and happiness.

Finally, self-image is more narrowly defined and refers to the picture we hold of ourselves. It is all our thoughts and beliefs about who we are. In a way, self-esteem is the measure for our self-image. Our self-image comprises a variety of perspectives and beliefs that make up the idea of who we are. Whilst some of these are evident in our appearance or status (e.g., I am a female, I am a lawyer, I am a mother), other beliefs are less evident and/or tangible (e.g., I am intelligent, I am undisciplined, I am extraverted). These images or ideas we have about who we are, are primarily adopted from our childhood. We attached these images to us based on both what others told us about who we are, as well as how others treated us. A positive self-image is characterised by self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-confidence, which contribute to overall psychological well-being and adaptive functioning. Conversely, a negative self-image is marked by self-doubt, self-criticism, or distorted perceptions about the self and others, which can lead to emotional distress and interpersonal difficulties.

Still struggling with clarity between these concepts? Maybe this garden analogy I generally use will help you remember these differences:

· Self-Esteem: Picture self-esteem as the flowers and plants in a garden. They bloom and thrive based on external factors like sunlight, water, and care. Similarly, our self-esteem can flourish or wither depending on external validation, successes, or failures.

· Self-Worth: On the other hand, self-worth is like the soil in the garden. It provides nourishment and support for the plants to grow, but its value isn’t determined by the flowers it produces. Similarly, self-worth is the inherent value we carry within ourselves, irrespective of our achievements or setbacks.

· Self-image: Finally, self-image is your view or perspective of the garden. How do you feel about the flowers and plants in the garden? What are the plants/flowers you like? What have other people told you about the flowers and plants in the garden? Do you view the garden as expansive or stagnant? What makes the garden unique?

· Self-concept: The garden!

It is to bear in mind that neither of these concepts is fixed or static, it can evolve and change over time through experiences, interactions, and self-reflection. Even though these concepts are solidified during childhood and early adulthood, they are still amenable to change during the entire lifespan. Unfortunately, the later in life you want to change these, the more challenging it is likely to be because your core beliefs have been reinforced over the years. Nevertheless, this remains great news, as it means that you are never too old to change the way you think about yourself, raise your self-esteem, and increase your self-worth!

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