Respect - Self

What is Self-Worth?

I don't think we actually learn this by someone telling us "Self-worth is". Self-worth refers to the inherent value and dignity one holds for themselves, independent of external achievements or validation. It involves recognizing one’s worthiness of love, respect, and happiness, regardless of circumstances or opinions from others. 

How to build your Self-Worth?

If someone doesn't teach you this how do you develop it. Do you wiggle your nose and it happens. Hell No! Building self-worth involves practicing self-compassion, setting and achieving personal goals, and challenging negative self-talk. Engaging in activities that reflect your values and surrounding yourself with supportive people can also reinforce a positive sense of self.

Why do I struggle with Self-Worth?

Struggling with self-worth can stem from past experiences, societal pressures, or negative self-perception. Factors like trauma, criticism, or unmet expectations can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

I personally feel that self-respect is one of the hardest things to achieve. Society makes us so self-conscious about the outside that unless you view yourself as perfect you don't achieve self-respect. On my 50th birthday I looked into the mirror and thought "Okay God you made me so I cannot be bad"! I must have some qualities that are fantastic! SO I made it a mission to get to know me, what I felt was pretty about me? What kind of person was I? I tried to see what people saw when they looked at me. And I realized I am not that bad! 

My mom used to say "You need to love yourself before you can love someone". I used to think it was such bull! She was so correct! I hate to admit it but its true! You need to like and love yourself which helps you achieve self-respect so you will value yourself enough to make sure you don't settle for anything, whether its a relationship, friendship or job. 

Exercise To Do - Self-Esteem Sentence Stems 

This Self-Esteem Sentence Stems worksheet should be used by writing down emotions and thoughts to help you  discover any personal issues impacting your self-esteem. The activity is most effective if you can spend 5-10 minutes on it several times a week over an extended period of time. Once you have been doing the exercise for a fortnight, it can be valuable to look over what you’ve recorded. This can help you notice positive changes in your responses. 

1.) I have always wanted to 

2.) I’m secretly afraid of 

3.) This week I would enjoy doing 

4.) I often look forward to 

5.) I feel something that the future holds for me is 

6.) I get my strength from 

7.) One thing a person couldn’t live without is

8.) I would never

9.) It made me feel great when

10.) I love when

11.) I find it hard to

12.) It makes me angry when

13.) I sometimes fear that

14.) This week is going to be

15.) Something I deeply desire is

16.) I flourish when

17.) This week I hope to

18.) Something I do secretly

19.) I find it hard to admit 

I go back and do this every so often it helps me realize how grateful I should be, how far I have come and what is going on in my life. It kind of keeps me centered. 

A man cannot be comfortable without his own approval.

Mark Twain