When self-esteem is low and self-criticism repeats
One mistake can grow into a judgement about your whole identity. Separate the event from that judgement and consider what support or action would be useful in the moment.
Three things to reflect on
- Write one sentence about a recent event and another about what you said to yourself.
- Try a more accurate account. Include what could be corrected and what you already did, without pretending there was no mistake.
- Choose a way to care for yourself or ask for help. Use a sentence you can accept rather than forcing yourself to believe a positive slogan.
You could say this to Maeumi
Example opening · Adapt it to your situation
“When I spot one mistake in a report, the whole day feels like a failure. I want to correct what went wrong without criticising my entire self.”
You do not have to explain everything at once. Explore one situation with Maeumi and save what you want to revisit. If Maeumi's understanding differs from yours, you can correct it on the spot.
Try a free tool
Write without an account, then choose what to copy or keep.
Explore further
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When professional support helps
Seek professional support if self-criticism disrupts meals, sleep, relationships or work, or distress continues. A questionnaire score is not a grade for your worth or future.
If you are concerned about your immediate safety or someone else's, contact local emergency services or a crisis line right away. In South Korea, call 112 or 119 for emergencies, or 109 for suicide prevention support.
General information source: CCI · Self-Esteem · Editorial standards