This is the eleventh of a 14-part series that covers the negative effects of low self-esteem.
In this section, we will unravel some issues that surround one of the most self-haunting consequences of low self-esteem.
Guilt
Guilt refers to an emotion that a person experiences when he believes that he has committed a violation to moral standards and takes accountability for it. It is closely related to the feeling of remorse.
Guilt is like a ghost that can keep on pointing an accusing finger on you if you can't let it go. You should keep yourself free from this haunting emotion as this can give you the tendency to develop self-hatred.
But guilt is not that bad if you keep it in check. It is actually a common emotional reaction when your inner critic tells you that you have done something that violates a rule or moral standard, and it usually makes you feel shame.
Guilt tells us to stop doing what we do that violates moral or social standards.
The Roots of Guilt
Guilt often sets in when we hold ourselves responsible for all wrongdoings. Its origins are more mental than physical and it can stem from factors such as a poor self image, a bad relationship, frustrations, or a history of abuse.
How to Let Go of Guilt
Feeling bad about your self is a sign of low self-esteem. You can learn to release it by being aware of the circumstances that cause you to feel it. Awareness can help to remind you why you are you feeling that way when certain things happen. Here are a few tips that can help you to let go of your guilt feelings:
1. Be aware of your thoughts, decisions and actions, and recognize your feelings after doing them. It can help you to identify the cause of your guilt which you need to avoid in the future.
2. Mistakes are part of being human. What has happened is already past. You can not change them but you can learn from them. What you can change about your mistakes is the way you feel about them.
3. Build self-esteem by being gentle with yourself. Learn to forgive yourself for your past mistakes. Faults and imperfections are a big part of being human. A healthy self esteem starts with your willingness to accept yourself.
