The Importance of Self-Worth
In one way or another, none of us are strangers to feelings of low confidence and self-worth. Our world has evolved to fuel these insecurities rather than suppress them, whether they’re sourced from social media, your career, the people around you, or your core values and beliefs. We’ve all been taught that what is projected at the surface level is rarely actually what it looks like at a deeper level, although it remains difficult to completely block out feelings of low self-worth. It is important to understand the causes of low self-worth and how you can control those feelings.
Having a high sense of self-worth affects every aspect of your life; people who possess this quality tend to have enough confidence to prevent failure from turning into insecurities. They pursue opportunities outside of their comfort zone without fear of being unsuccessful. They are more likely to have healthier relationships and friendships because they know what they deserve and don’t settle for anything less than they deserve. They set boundaries and stand up for themselves and others.
While having high self-worth comes naturally to some, not everyone feels the same. Fortunately, improving your self-worth is possible when you understand the reasons why you feel that way and how to change them. Using the following strategies may help in building your self-worth leading to a more confident you.
1. Surround Yourself With Positive Relationships
Choose to nurture friendships that fulfill, inspire, and encourage you. Remove yourself from relationships that are no longer helping you to become the best version of yourself.
2. Be Kind to Yourself
Treat yourself with kindness and respect, even in times of failure. Forgive yourself and don’t be so harsh when things go wrong. Understand that you deserve to be loved and appreciated by others and yourself.
3. Find What You Are Good At and Recognize What Areas Aren’t Your Strong Suits
It is okay to accept that you are going to perform better at some tasks and skills rather than others. Focus on what you’re good at and give yourself grace when you fail at the things you aren’t as strong in.
4. Find Your Passions and Embrace Them
Spending time doing things you love and enjoy is going to make you feel more fulfilled in life. Try out all sorts of new interests and discover what makes you happiest. Embrace your passions and make them a priority in your life.
5. Learn to Say, “No”
Be assertive and learn to say, “no” when you need to. Stand up for yourself and make decisions that benefit you for the better. Some people will try to walk over you – therefore, have the confidence to make empowered decisions for yourself
6. Stop Comparing Yourself to Other People
No one ever sees the full picture of what someone is going through, therefore, don’t compare yourself to a surface-level version of what you see. One of the best pieces of advice I was ever given was to understand that our beauty, success, and self-worth does not come at the expense of another person’s. We all have our own experiences, thoughts, and abilities that make us different and unique.
Building your self-worth takes time and is sometimes easier said than done. Have confidence in yourself, and if you don’t, fake it ‘til you make it. When you decide to start acting with higher self-worth, you will eventually begin to genuinely feel more confident and empowered in yourself. Remember that you are deserving and worthy of self-love and appreciation, and the rest will fall into place.
By: Christine Babish
