Unlock the Power of Self-Worth

I find myself battling between different people demanding my attention and validation which makes it easy to lose sight of my own worth. We often find ourselves seeking approval from others, neglecting the most important source of validation – ourselves. However, recognizing and valuing our own unique qualities and abilities is crucial for living a fulfilling and authentic life. Therefore, I wanted to share some of the different benefits of valuing ourselves and what it means to value yourself. 

      Understanding the Concept of Self-Worth. Self-worth is the deep core belief that demonstrates the value of oneself. It goes beyond external accomplishments or materialistic possessions, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance, self-love, and self-compassion. Therefore, recognizing that we are enough, just as we are, forms the foundation of our self-worth. It is often common to hear many people say “love yourself” or “you deserve better” due to the standards we have placed in our lives and expect others to meet or reach. By doing so, we increase our self-worth and demonstrate the importance of valuing ourselves. 

      Embracing Our Uniqueness. Each of us possesses a remarkable set of talents, passions, and experiences that make us unique. Embracing our individuality and celebrating our strengths allows us to acknowledge our worth. Hence, it is crucial for us to take time to identify our personal qualities and appreciate the contributions we bring to the world. Perhaps you feel like a loner or outcast, but the truth is, being yourself is what makes you different. You do not need to copy or imitate anyone else because you are the best version of yourself when you are yourself. While we recognize we are unique beings, we are often hard on ourselves or think too critically of our development, appearance, and mindset. Negative self-talk can significantly impact our self-worth. It’s important to recognize and challenge self-limiting beliefs or the critical voice within us. I encourage you to replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations, reminding yourself of your worth and your ability to overcome challenges. Also, make sure you surround yourself with supportive and uplifting people who encourage your growth. Doing so will allow you to build a network of friends, family, or mentors who value and appreciate you for who you are. Therefore, engage in activities or communities that align with your passions and values, fostering an environment that uplifts and encourages your growth. For example, my church community plays a role in my self-worth while my friends do so as well. 

      Prioritizing Self-Care. Valuing ourselves means prioritizing our well-being. Engaging in self-care activities, both physically and emotionally, is essential for maintaining a positive self-image. This can include regular exercise, healthy eating, getting enough sleep, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation. Perhaps self-care looks different for you than me, but I love to practice self-care through watching my favorite show, lying in bed staring at the ceiling, art, going for a late-night cruise or simply painting my nails. Think of what relaxes you… how long ago did you practice that activity in your life? When was the last time you allowed yourself to be valued or valued yourself ? I encourage you to reflect on your life and begin to value yourself just as you may value a person, job, money, etc. Now, part of self-care also entails setting boundaries as a way to demonstrate that we value ourselves. It allows us to protect our emotional well-being and maintain healthy relationships. Although I know it could be challenging, learning to say no when necessary, and prioritizing your needs without guilt is helpful in this journey of self-worth. By respecting our boundaries, we send a powerful message to ourselves and others about our self-worth.

      After all, valuing ourselves is not a selfish act; it is an essential component of living a fulfilling and empowered life. By recognizing our worth, embracing our uniqueness, and practicing self-care, we unlock the power within us. Let us embark on a journey towards self-love, self-acceptance, and self-compassion, for it is through valuing ourselves that we can truly thrive and make a positive impact on the world around us.

Reference:

https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/self-esteem/why-self-worth-matters-and-how-to-improve-it/#

Written by : Rachel Garcia; Masters Level Intern at Olive Branch

If you need support, live in the Chicago area, and would like to speak to a professional counselor, please contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. at 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819 West 167th Street in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477.