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If you have read anything about improving wellbeing, chances are you have been exposed to a lot of “self” words: self-esteem, self-confidence, self-efficacy, self-respect, or self-care, to name a few.

While all these terms sound similar and relate to the concept of self, they all differ slightly.

Today, we want to discuss the topic of self-worth.

What Is Self-Worth?

Self-worth is based on the knowledge that we have inherent value as individuals, regardless of our achievements or external factors. It is the belief that we are deserving of love, respect, and happiness. It is an essential aspect of our well-being, as it shapes how we see ourselves, how we interact with others, and how we approach life.

It is shaped by our experiences, relationships, and the messages that we receive from society. People with high self-worth are confident, assertive, and able to set healthy boundaries. They are also more resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks.

Self-Worth, Self-Esteem & Self-Confidence

Self-esteem, self-worth, and self-confidence are closely related concepts that interact to shape our overall sense of self.

Self-confidence is the belief in our abilities to handle challenges and succeed. It is the trust that we have in ourselves to take on new tasks and achieve our goals. Self-confidence is based on our past experiences of success and failure, as well as our perception of our abilities and skills.

Whereas self-esteem is our evaluation of ourselves overall. This leads to a sense of self-worth and confidence in our abilities.

Why Is Self-Worth Important?

Having a strong sense of self-worth is crucial for our mental and emotional health. When we believe in our own value and worth, we are more likely to take care of ourselves, set healthy boundaries, and pursue our goals and dreams.

We are also more likely to build positive relationships with others and avoid unhealthy or abusive relationships. In contrast, low self-worth can lead to negative self-talk, self-doubt, and a lack of confidence. It can also make us vulnerable to toxic relationships and behaviours.

How to improve self-worth?

Improving self-worth takes time and effort, but it is worth it in the long run. Here are some strategies that can help:

Practice self-compassion

Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a good friend. Be gentle with yourself and recognize that you are doing the best you can.

Challenge negative self-talk

Notice when you are engaging in negative self-talk and challenge those thoughts. Replace them with positive affirmations and reminders of your strengths and accomplishments.

Set healthy boundaries

Identify your needs and values and communicate them clearly to others. Say "no" when necessary and prioritise your own well-being.

Focus on your strengths

Identify your unique talents, skills, and qualities and focus on developing them further. Celebrate your accomplishments and take pride in your achievements.

Practice self-care

Take care of your physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and get enough sleep. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or other relaxation techniques.

Surround yourself with positivity

Seek out positive and supportive people who lift you up and encourage you. Avoid people who bring you down or criticise you.

In conclusion, self-worth is an essential aspect of our well-being and happiness. By practicing self-compassion, challenging negative self-talk, setting healthy boundaries, focusing on our strengths, practicing self-care, and surrounding ourselves with positivity, we can improve our sense of self- worth and live a more fulfilling life. Remember, self-worth is not something that can be given or taken away by others - it comes from within us.