When the Mirror Lies: A Reflection on Self-Esteem in Men

You’d never know it from the outside.

He’s the guy who turns up. Provides for his family. Makes people laugh. Keeps pushing through.

But behind the quiet nods and half-smiles, there’s a different story playing out—a voice inside whispering, “You’re not enough.”

Self-esteem in men often goes unnoticed. It doesn’t always look like sadness. It can wear the face of silence, perfectionism, overwork, or even anger.

For many men, it’s not about wanting to be better—it’s about believing deep down that they’re not good enough.

Where did that voice begin? Was it a careless comment from a father? The ache of always being picked last? The silent shame of not living up to someone else’s expectations?

Whatever the story, low self-esteem steals joy, erodes relationships, and builds walls where bridges should be.

Here’s the truth:

• You are more than your past.

• More than your mistakes.

• More than your job title.

  
  

Rebuilding self-esteem starts when you stop listening to the lies and start talking back—with truth, with courage, with help.

Reflection

• What standards have you been holding yourself to that might not be fair or realistic?

• Whose voice have you let define your worth?

You don’t have to walk this alone. At Samway Consulting (formerly Samway Counselling Services), I work with men who are ready to untangle the knots of low self-worth and discover who they really are—beyond the noise.