Self-Worth 101: Practical Tips for Developing a Strong Sense of Value and Esteem

Self-worth is the foundation of our emotional and psychological well-being. When we have strong self-worth, we believe that we hold value simply because we exist, not because of what we do or what others think of us. A healthy sense of self-worth affects many aspects of life, including mental and emotional well being. High self-worth reduces anxiety, depression, and stress. People with strong self-worth form healthier relationships, set boundaries, and avoid toxic relationships. A strong sense of value helps us bounce back from failures and setbacks. When we value ourselves, we make choices that align with our needs and well-being. Struggling to find that healthy sense of self? Therapy can help you challenge your inner critic and redefine your self worth. 

Challenge Negative Self-Talk

Our inner dialogue has a huge impact on how we perceive ourselves. If we constantly tell ourselves that we are not good enough, we will start to believe it. To build self-worth, we must challenge and reframe the negative narratives that we tell ourselves. Identifying what your negative thoughts are is a crucial first step in the process. Pay close attention to what your critical voice is telling you, then challenge it. Ask yourself, is this thought factual or just coming from fear? Then we reframe, replacing the harsh self-criticism with self-compassion. Instead of saying, “I am always wrong”, say, “I’m learning and growing”. Practicing this regularly can shift your mindset and help you develop a more positive self-image.

Practice Self-Compassion

We also have to learn to practice self-compassion! Self-compassion involves treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend or family member. Many people are much harder on themselves than they are on others. Acknowledge your struggles instead of ignoring your feelings or being overly critical. Recognize that everyone makes mistakes, as it’s part of learning and growing as a person. Use positive affirmations with yourself to remind yourself that you deserve love and kindness. Simple affirmations like, “I am enough”, or “I deserve respect” can be very powerful. Lastly, to help improve your self esteem engage in the self-care that you would tell your loved ones to! Take time for activities that nourish your mind and body, such as exercise, meditation, or creative outlets. 

Set Healthy Boundaries

A crucial part of developing a strong sense of self value is setting boundaries. People with low self-worth often struggle with setting boundaries because they fear rejection or feel unworthy of respect. However, boundaries are essential for maintaining self-respect and protecting well-being. Betterhelp explains how to set boundaries for your self-worth by recognizing your limits and identifying situations where you feel uncomfortable or taken advantage of. This can help you to understand what to set a boundary with. Communicating clearly and learning to say “no” can also help to set boundaries. By doing this, you are prioritizing yourself. Remember that setting boundaries is not selfish, it is necessary for self-respect! And, in order to be there for others, you have to be there for yourself first. 

Surround Yourself with Positive Influences

The people we spend time with can significantly impact our sense of self-worth. If we surround ourselves with individuals who uplift and support us, our sense of value will grow. If we surround ourselves constantly with toxic relationships and people that don’t have our best interest at heart, it can impact our sense of self worth. Evaluate your relationships and ask yourself if the people in your life encourage or undermine your self-worth. Find supportive communities that will uplift you by joining groups or engaging in activities where people appreciate and respect you. Lastly, limit exposure to negativity! Distance yourself from those who bring you down or make you doubt your value. 

Acknowledge Your Strengths and Accomplishments

Many people focus on their shortcomings while ignoring their strengths. Recognizing and celebrating your achievements—big or small—can help build self-worth in an impactful way! Start by making a strengths list or, if you’re struggling to make this, do it with a therapist! A MW blog also suggests practicing daily affirmations, or recording daily or weekly accomplishments to remind yourself of your progress. Most importantly, accept the compliments people give you! When someone compliments you, resist the urge to downplay it. Simply say, “Thank you.” This helps us engrain the idea that these positive qualities in us are a reality.

Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Comparison is a major self-worth killer. With social media showcasing highlight reels of people’s lives, it’s easy to feel like we aren’t good enough. However, comparing yourself to others is unfair and unnecessary. Limiting social media exposure is a start. Take breaks from social media if it makes you feel less than in any way. Focus on your own growth instead.  Lastly, practice gratitude and appreciate what you have rather than focusing on what you lack.

Engage in Activities That Make You Feel Worthy

Sometimes, taking action can reinforce a sense of self-worth. Doing things that align with your values and bring you joy can strengthen your belief in your own value. Is there a hobby or passion project you have put off? Now is the time to do it! Engage in hobbies and activities that make you feel fulfilled. Acts of kindness, like volunteering or supporting a friend, can boost self-worth. Learning new skills or taking on challenges can also increase confidence.

Seek Professional Support

If your lack of self-worth feels deeply rooted and affects your daily life, professional support can be invaluable. Therapy can help you address past experiences and build a healthier self-image.

Building self-worth is a lifelong journey, but every small step counts! By challenging negative self-talk, practicing self-compassion, setting boundaries, and surrounding yourself with positive influences, you can develop a strong sense of value and esteem. Remember, your worth is not defined by external factors, it comes from within! Start implementing these practical tips today, and over time, you will notice a significant transformation in how you see yourself and navigate the world. You are worthy, just as you are. 

FEEL MORE CONFIDENT WITH THERAPY FOR WOMEN IN BROOKLYN & MANHATTAN, NEW YORK

At Manhattan Wellness, we understand that with all the messages we receive from the world, it can be difficult to maintain a positive narrative about ourselves. From social media, movies, and even people close to us, it can be hard to drown out the negative. So much so that our inner critic takes over and we forget to show ourselves the same compassion as others. That’s why our female therapists want to support you in building the confidence you need to reach your highest potential. Let us help you create an empowering narrative that will benefit all aspects of your life, from personal to professional. If you are interested in beginning counseling for women:

1. Submit a Contact Form or Email Us at hello@manhattanwellness.org
2. Learn More About Our Team and Our Areas of Expertise
3. Begin Seeing Yourself in a Whole New Light!

OTHER THERAPY SERVICES AT MANHATTAN WELLNESS IN MANHATTAN, WESTCHESTER, BROOKLYN & THROUGHOUT NEW YORK

Our therapists understand that building confidence takes time and that other issues can come up along the way. To better support you, we offer a variety of services to cater to your individual needs. The therapy services we offer are Therapy for Self Esteem, Anxiety Treatment, and therapy for dating and relationship issues. As well as therapy for college students, support for maternal mental health, body image therapy, and so much more. Are you feel like you’re not living the life you want and need to make changes? Let’s talk about it.