Do you Suffer from Feelings of Low Self-Worth or Low Self-Esteem?

Here are 4 Purposeful ways you can improve it.

 Before we dive into how purposeful actions can boost self-esteem and self-worth, let's take a moment to understand why many of us struggle with low self-worth in the first place.

Have you ever wondered why we have low self-worth or low-self-esteem in the first place?

The Origins of Low Self-Worth

Low self-worth often has its roots in our life experiences and choices. Here are some common causes:

Pursuing Unhealthy Pleasures

Seeking happiness in external, short-lived pleasures can lead to a cycle of low self-esteem. These fleeting joys often leave us feeling empty, contributing to a sense of worthlessness. A repeated cycle eventually causes low self-esteem. For example: Watching pornography, playing video games day, watching too much TV, or even incessant browsing on social media.

Avoiding Necessary Experiences

Sometimes, we avoid situations or experiences that may induce fear or discomfort. This avoidance can hinder personal growth and reinforce negative self-perceptions. For example, accepting that additional responsibility at work, or not showing up in a social situation that causes even a little anxiety. 

Negative Self-Talk

Constant self-criticism and negative self-talk can erode self-worth over time. The stories we tell ourselves about our capabilities and worthiness significantly impact our self-esteem, as we saw a few emails ago, how you talk to yourself matters!.

Comparison Trap 

Comparing ourselves to others, while ignoring our own journey and process of learning can also decrease self-esteem. It can quickly lead to feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness.

Past Trauma

Unresolved past traumas or difficult life events can significantly impact self-esteem. These experiences may leave emotional scars that affect our self-perception.

Understanding these origins is the first step toward improving self-worth. It's essential to acknowledge that many people grapple with these issues. 

You are not alone on this journey.

Cultivating Self-Worth Through Purposeful Action

Now, let's explore how engaging in meaningful activities can help counteract these negative influences and nurture self-esteem. Purposeful actions align with your values and passions, providing a sense of fulfillment and intrinsic worth.

Here are some methods to consider:

1. Consciously working on developing a Habit 

Building a positive habit creates predictability, and this predictability starts creating security in the mind. This sense of security fosters a feeling of control, which is fundamental to building self-esteem. Start with a small, manageable habit that you can consistently practice. Such as exercising everyday or meditating and journaling everyday. 

2. Setting a small Inspirational Goal

Take up a challenge that inspires you and feels achievable, like running a 5k, or doing 50 pushups, or 3 weeks of Meditation & Journaling. Achieving even small goals can boost your self-esteem and give you a sense of accomplishment. As you achieve these milestones, your confidence will naturally grow.

3. Getting Active and Spending Time in Nature

Physical activity and spending time in nature can do wonders for your self-worth. Exercise releases endorphins, which improve your mood, and nature provides a safe space to reflect and find peace within yourself. Shake off the laziness and embrace the vitality that comes with movement.

4. Pursuing Hobbies

Devote more time to doing something you genuinely enjoy. Hobbies not only bring joy but also build self-worth by allowing you to develop and excel in an area of interest. Whether it's painting, playing an instrument, or gardening, hobbies nurture your sense of identity and self-worth.

Remember, the journey toward improved self-worth is a process. It's okay to start small and gradually work your way up. Every step you take is a step closer to a healthier self-esteem.

Let me leave you with a couple of quotes to inspire you on this journey:

“The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself.”

― Michel de Montaigne, The Complete Essays

"Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it." - (probably) Rumi

What impediments do you feel currently to living a life of self-worth and high self-esteem?

Stay curious and Stay compassionate.