The traditional measurement of self-esteem has been flawed, as demonstrated by studies in maximum security prisons where the most violent criminals showed the highest levels of self-esteem. This has raised questions about whether self-esteem is being measured accurately or if it is actually measuring narcissism. The distinction between self-esteem and narcissism is complex and difficult to answer. The concept of self-esteem and its measurement has improved over the past few decades, but there are still significant doubts about its historical measurement and implementation. A more effective way to measure self-esteem is to ask individuals how they feel about the negative aspects of themselves. High self-esteem individuals accept their flaws and strive to improve, while those with low self-esteem have a negative relationship with their worst aspects, and narcissistic individuals refuse to acknowledge any negative qualities. Some recent researchers have adopted this approach, considering it a much better way to understand and measure self-esteem.
What do you do when trying to improve your life makes you feel worse? What if trying to be better comes across as ‘try-hard’? What if setting more goals is just your way of avoiding your own bullshit?
This is the topic of discussion in today’s episode, “The Self-Improvement Paradox”—or in other words, why sometimes trying to be better makes you feel worse. It turns out improving yourself is nuanced and complicated.
Who would have thought?
Check it out.