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The journey to personal growth begins with an understanding and nurturing of self-worth and self-esteem. Although many use these terms interchangeably, they represent distinct aspects of ourselves that are important for lifelong wellbeing. Understanding the differences and developing both qualities enables one to build a stronger foundation for success in relationships, careers, and personal endeavors.
Although both traits are related, they differ in important ways, according to a Choosing Therapy newsletter. Self-esteem fluctuates depending on mood sways, life challenges, successes, and failures. Self-worth, akin to an inner self-esteem, comes from a deep-down sense of knowing one’s worth. While self-esteem ebbs and flows, self-worth is an anchor.
That inner sense of self-worth represents an inherent belief in your value as a person and exists regardless of external achievements, reported Business Insider. It reflects how much you value yourself at the core. In contrast, self-esteem develops from external factors like accomplishments, positive feedback from friends, a boss, or parents, as well as developing interests in areas where you naturally excel.
The power of high self-worth and self-esteem
The development of self-worth comes before self-esteem, explains the Thriveworks website. Several key elements contribute to the advancement of healthy self-worth; security in yourself and your environment creates a stable foundation, while resilience helps us bounce back from challenges.
Character strength, clear personal boundaries, and self-compassion all play vital roles in maintaining strong self-worth. These building blocks typically begin forming in early childhood, with significant development occurring by age 5, though they continue to evolve throughout your life.
Maintaining healthy levels of both self-worth and self-esteem leads to many benefits, according to Business Insider. People with strong self-regard are more likely to aspire towards new opportunities, have healthy, lasting relationships, and navigate life's challenges with ease. They tend to experience better physical and mental health outcomes and often achieve greater success in academic and professional pursuits.
Practical steps for growth
Developing stronger self-worth and self-esteem requires consistent effort yet yields lasting rewards. If you want to positively reinforce your own sense of self, first try to become aware of your inner dialogue. Practice self-compassion by repeating positive affirmations.
To build confidence, keep a list of achievements, no matter how small. When those negative inner thoughts take over, listen and explore. Try to reframe the negative thoughts by asking yourself whether you would speak to a friend with that same harsh criticism.
Or perhaps that stern inner voice is reminiscent of a disciplining parent. By simply becoming aware, you may encourage a shift in perspective leading to a more compassionate inner voice.
One important step is to compare yourself to your past self rather than to others, focusing on your own personal growth and progress. Social connections are also imperative, so keep in touch with friends and family who are loving and supportive.
Another powerful approach involves establishing healthy boundaries in relationships by communicating clear lines, explains Thriveworks. You can also develop self-compassion by being kind and practicing patience with yourself. And be accepting; when there are obstacles in life, understand that this too can change for the better.
The journey towards stronger self-worth and self-esteem begins with an understanding of their unique roles. When you reflect on external achievements while maintaining a strong internal foundation, these two traits work together in harmony, creating a more fulfilling life. This path to personal growth is available to all — simply bring along positivity, patience, and kindness.
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