Having low self-esteem can be very difficult for a person, and it can be even more challenging when people say things that make them feel worse.

Although we may not realize it, our words can have a significant impact on others, especially on those who struggle with their self-image and self-worth. If you want to help a friend or family member who has low self-esteem, it’s essential to avoid saying certain things that could potentially affect them negatively. Here are thirty phrases to avoid saying to someone with low self-esteem:.

1. “You’re not good enough.”

Telling someone they’re not good enough can be very disheartening, and it reinforces the belief that they have about themselves. It’s essential to uplift them by reminding them of their strengths and how much they mean to you.

2. “Why can’t you be more like [insert name]?”

Comparing someone to others can make them feel inferior, and it creates a negative environment for them. Instead, focus on their unique qualities and strengths and help them build on those.

3. “You always mess everything up.”

This phrase can be very damaging, especially to someone who’s already struggling with their self-esteem. Encourage them to keep trying and remind them that everyone makes mistakes.

4. “You’re too sensitive.”

Invalidating someone’s emotions can be very hurtful and can make them feel like their feelings don’t matter. Instead, listen to them and offer your support and understanding.

5. “You’re too skinny,” or “You’re too fat.”

Commenting on someone’s weight can be very damaging to their self-esteem. It’s essential to focus on their health and well-being instead of their appearance.

6. “Stop being so dramatic.”

Belittling someone’s emotions and feelings can be very harmful and can lead them to suppress their emotions, which is not healthy. Validate their feelings and offer your support.

7. “I told you so.”

Using this phrase can make a person feel like they’ve failed, and they might stop trying altogether. Instead, offer your support and help them come up with a solution for the problem at hand.

8. “You’re not smart enough.”

Putting someone down for their intelligence can be very harmful and can make them feel like they’re not capable of achieving their goals. Encourage them to continue learning and growing.

9. “Why can’t you be more like [insert name]?”

Comparing someone to others can make them feel inferior, and it creates a negative environment for them. Instead, focus on their unique qualities and strengths and help them build on those.

10. “You’re not attractive.”

Telling someone they’re not attractive can be very hurtful, and it reinforces negative beliefs they might have about their self-image. Compliment them on their unique qualities instead of their appearance.

11. “You’re too old to do that.”

Saying this can make someone feel like they’re not capable of achieving their goals because of their age. Encourage them to pursue their passions, no matter their age.

12. “You always fail.”

This phrase can make someone feel like they’re not capable of succeeding, and they might stop trying altogether. Encourage them to keep trying, and remind them of their past successes.

13. “Why can’t you just be happy?”

Struggling with self-esteem and happiness is not a choice. It’s essential to offer support and help them work through their emotions instead of dismissing them.

14. “You’re not as good as [insert name].”

Comparing someone to others can make them feel inferior and overshadow their unique talents and strengths. Focus on their unique abilities and help them build on those.

15. “You’re not worthy of love.”

This phrase can be very damaging and can reinforce negative beliefs someone might have about themselves. Remind them of their worth and how much they’re loved and appreciated.

16. “I’m too busy for you.”

Telling someone you’re too busy for them can make them feel like they’re not important. Make time for them and show them how much you value their presence.

17. “You’re too emotional.”

Invalidating someone’s emotions can be very hurtful and can make them feel like they need to suppress their emotions. Validate their feelings and offer your support.

18. “You’ll never be successful.”

This phrase can make someone feel like they’re not capable of achieving their goals, and they might stop trying altogether. Encourage them to continue working towards their dreams.

19. “Why do you always do that?”

Asking someone this question can be very accusatory and can make them feel like they’re always doing something wrong. Instead, try to understand their actions and offer your support.

20. “I knew you couldn’t do it.”

Saying this can make someone feel like they’ve failed, and they might stop trying altogether. Encourage them to keep trying, and remind them of their past successes.

21. “You’re not talented.”

Putting someone down for their talents or abilities can be very harmful and can make them feel like they’re not capable of achieving their goals. Encourage them to continue honing their skills.

22. “Why can’t you be more like [insert name]?”

Comparing someone to others can make them feel inferior and overshadow their unique talents and strengths. Focus on their unique abilities and help them build on those.

23. “You’re too old/young for that.”

Telling someone they’re too old or too young for something can make them feel like they’re not capable of achieving their goals. Validate their ambitions and help them pursue their passions.

24. “You’re not good at that.”

Putting someone down for their abilities or talents can be very harmful and can make them feel like they’re not capable of achieving their goals. Encourage them to continue honing their skills.

25. “Why can’t you just be normal?”

Struggling with mental health is not a choice, and it’s essential to offer support and help them work through their emotions instead of dismissing them.

26. “You’re not as pretty/handsome as [insert name].”

Comparing someone to others can make them feel inferior and overshadow their unique beauty and qualities. Focus on their unique attributes and help them build on those.

27. “You’re too weak.”

Telling someone they’re weak can be very damaging and can reinforce negative beliefs they might have about themselves. Encourage them to keep pushing forward, and remind them of their strength and resilience.

28. “Why can’t you just be happy like everyone else?”

Struggling with mental health and happiness is not a choice, and it’s essential to offer support and help them work through their emotions instead of dismissing them.

29. “You’re not worthy of respect.”

This phrase can be very damaging and can reinforce negative beliefs someone might have about themselves. Remind them of their worth and how much they deserve respect and kindness.

30. “You’ll never be good enough.”

This phrase can make someone feel like they’re not capable of achieving their goals, and they might stop trying altogether. Encourage them to keep striving towards their dreams and celebrate their successes along the way.

Conclusion

Having low self-esteem can be very debilitating and can affect many aspects of a person’s life. It’s essential to be mindful of the things we say to others, especially to those who struggle with their self-worth.

By avoiding these thirty phrases and instead offering support, encouragement, and validation, we can help our loved ones build their self-esteem and live a happier, more fulfilling life.