The way we feel about ourselves can be influenced by many things, including our experiences online. The opening module (1 of 6) in the Cybersmile x Erborian Self-Esteem Academy looks at what self-esteem, self-worth, and confidence mean, how they differ, and why understanding those differences matters.
Cybersmile's Likes and Lows 2026 research, developed in partnership with Erborian, found that 69% of respondents said their opinion of themselves depends on what other people think. Encouragement and positive feedback can be valuable, but relying too heavily on external approval can make it difficult to feel confident when that approval isn't there.
The questions explore negative self-talk, self-doubt, and how a critical comment, disappointing result, or difficult experience can affect the way we see ourselves. You'll consider how to take useful feedback on board without allowing it to define your worth, and why confidence doesn't mean feeling certain or positive about yourself all the time.
These ideas lay the groundwork for the rest of the Academy, helping learners understand how online validation, comparison, appearance pressures, and cyberbullying can influence self-esteem.