1. High self-esteem 

 When people have high self-esteem, they have a healthy perception of who they are, and they can navigate external influences or situations without compromising themselves. 

For example, if a reasonably healthy person is told, “Your body isn’t right for those clothes,” or “You’re not smart enough to do that”—they can logically process those statements with an awareness that these statements are another person’s opinions—and not a fact.

Therefore, these external judgments would not be internalized in a damaging way. 

That said, a reasonably healthy person with high self-esteem can accept and see value in constructive feedback, and they can determine whether or not to take action. 

2. Low self-esteem

People with low self-esteem don’t value themselves nor their feelings and potential. 

Many more Americans are turning to Google to search for low self-esteem than are searching for high self-esteem or inflated self-esteem.

3. Inflated self-esteem

Those who have inflated self-esteem think they are better than other people and they tend to overestimate their own abilities and underestimate everyone else’s abilities and strengths. 

If self-esteem is on a spectrum, high self-esteem is on the healthy end, while low self-esteem would be on the unhealthy end. 

However, that said, inflated self-esteem is also problematic and negative, as it can hold people back from positive relationships with others and even listening to others.

Remember, all of us at times can shift our perception of ourselves and transition from feeling secure and confident to feeling unsure and self-doubting.  

If you notice your own self-esteem is fluctuating a lot, or you find yourself having continuous self-loathing thoughts, it may be time to talk with a mental health professional.