When it comes to the different elements of our lives, the way we feel about ourselves plays an immense role in our overall wellbeing and what we are capable of achieving. Self-worth is a common phrase used to describe one’s opinion of their own worth as an individual, Therefore, understanding what self-worth is and improving it can be a valuable tool in helping us live happy and successful lives.
What Is Self-Worth?
Self-worth is a person’s opinion of themselves, which is based on their perception of their own ability and value. Everyone has both positive and negative thoughts about themselves and how they measure up in different areas. For example, somebody’s self-worth can go up when they accomplish a goal or experience success, and go down when faced with failure, disappointment or humiliation. Knowing our own self-worth can form the basis for our confidence and ability for both our personal and professional lives.
The Impact of Self-Worth
Our sense of self-worth also has a large impact on our emotional wellbeing and how we interact with others. For instance, a person with poor self-worth or low self-confidence may feel anxious or even depressed, while someone with a strong sense of self-worth will likely be much more secure and optimistic in their everyday life. A positive self-worth also increases our ability to make decisions, work with others and extend empathy, making it an integral part of living a successful and fulfilled life.
How to Increase Self-Worth
Understanding how to increase your own self-worth is an important step in living a better life. Here are a few things you can do to increase your own self-worth:
• Acknowledge Your Achievements – Make a point to recognize when you make progress and successes, no matter how small. Successful people make a habit of rewarding themselves for their accomplishments.
• Find a Meaningful Activity – Take some time to find an activity you truly enjoy and can engage in on a regular basis. Whether it’s hiking, painting, volunteering, or anything else that speaks to your soul, engaging in activities that bring pleasure and meaning to your life can go a long way in helping to increase your self-worth.
• Spend Time with Positive People – Being surrounded by positive people can help to lift your own sense of self-worth. Spend time with those who offer support, inspire and encourage you to reach your goals.
• Practice Positive Self-Talk – Help yourself develop a positive and empowered outlook by talking to yourself in an encouraging manner. Instead of dwelling on negative self-images, send yourself positive and affirming messages as much and as often as you can.
• Take Care of Yourself – Taking care of yourself physically and mentally is an important part of becoming your best self. Make healthy diet choices, exercise regularly, get plenty of rest and practice positive self-care that reminds you of your worth.
• Visualize Your Best Self – When trying to build your self-esteem and self-worth, it often helps to visualize yourself being successful and achieving your goals. Spend time imagining yourself being at your best and how good it feels.
• Practice Gratitude – Come up with a way to record memories of the things that make you grateful for who you are and the life you lead. Whether through a journal, scrapbook or just simply listing your blessings in life, writing them down can really boost your self-worth.
• Live a Authentic Life – Live with purpose, embracing your strengths and weaknesses and staying true to yourself. Avoid comparing yourself to others and strive to be the best version of you, rather than somebody else.
Our self-worth is an important factor in our overall sense of well-being and success. Understanding and improving your self-worth is an invaluable tool that can help you lead a happy and fulfilling life. By taking steps to increase your self-worth such as recognizing your achievements, engaging in meaningful activities and surrounding yourself with positive people, you can begin to make positive changes in your outlook and begin to live life to its fullest.
