Be there for yourself

I just want to clarify: Self-worth is not the same as self-esteem.

Our self-esteem is derived from our abilities, accomplishments, social positions and things we believe and we can achieve.We can bolster our self-esteem by improving our skills or performance, and our self-esteem goes up and down depending on how we’re doing in various aspects of our lives.

In contrast, unconditional self-worth is distinct from our abilities and accomplishments.Unconditional self-worth is the sense that you deserve to be alive, to be loved and cared for.

Unconditional self-worth is the antidote to low self-worth.It is a way out of self-criticism, shame and unhealthy behavior.

When life gets rough, many of us abandon ourselves during times of challenge.We engage in harsh self-criticism — which only leaves us feeling worse.

What we need most when we are going through a difficult time is for someone to say “I see you.I see how badly you’re hurting.I’m here.”We can do this for ourselves.

The next time you experience emotional pain, acknowledge how you were feeling and offer yourself some comfort.Place your hand on your chest, give yourself a hug or say something kind and soothing to yourself.

Low self-worth can leave us feeling isolated and alone.When we think there’s something wrong with us, we tend to pull away from our relationships, and this isolation only exacerbates our feelings of unworthiness.

Knowing that we are not alone in our struggles and pain reminds us that challenges don’t make us unworthy.Connecting to people who are supportive helps us to get in touch with our humanity and our sense of worth.

One last thing: The journey to unconditional self-worth is not always easy.But I’m here to tell you that this journey is also beautiful and worth taking.On it, you’ll find strength, become grounded in your humanity and know that you are worthy.