As a clinical psychologist, I see many clients struggling with low self-worth. Self-worth is important to our mental health and wellbeing and refers to seeing oneself as valuable and important as a human being. It encompasses the understanding that each person is valuable and deserving of respect, regardless of external achievements, appearances, or opinions of others. It is not about feeling better than others but rather being able to respect yourself and treat yourself with kindness no matter what is happening in your life, especially during times of struggle. Here are ten key strategies to enhance self-worth:

1. Assess where your beliefs about self-worth come from
   Understanding the origins of your negative beliefs is crucial. These beliefs often stem from family, peers, or media. Reflect on your experiences—if you grew up hearing critical comments or were influenced by societal expectations, consider how these messages shaped your views. Reframing these beliefs can promote a healthier sense of self.
2. Challenge negative thoughts
   Identify negative thoughts about yourself, such as ‘I’m not good enough’ or ‘I’ll never succeed’. Ask yourself, Is this really true? Challenging these thoughts helps you adopt a more balanced perspective, such as ‘My value isn’t determined by my achievements’.
3. Appreciate your strengths
   Shift your focus from perceived flaws to your strengths and accomplishments. Whether it’s being a good friend, a dedicated worker, or someone who cares for others, appreciating your unique qualities fosters gratitude. This perspective reinforces the idea that your worth isn’t solely tied to external validation.
4. Challenge unrealistic expectations
   Societal standards often promote unattainable ideals. When you catch yourself thinking, ‘I should be more successful’ or ‘I should have a perfect life’, question those standards. Reframe your thoughts to acknowledge that everyone’s journey is unique and valuable.
5. Practice self-compassion
   Many individuals are hard on themselves, especially regarding perceived failures. Practising self-compassion means treating yourself with kindness. Engage in positive self-talk, write affirmations, or participate in activities that bring you joy. These acts cultivate a more supportive inner dialogue.
6. Limit social comparison
   Social comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy. If you find yourself comparing your life to others, remind yourself that everyone is on their own path and has unique strengths. This mindset helps reduce the pressure to conform to external standards.
7. Cultivate gratitude for your accomplishments
   Gratitude is a powerful tool for fostering positive self-worth. Keeping a gratitude journal where you note what you appreciate about yourself—like overcoming challenges or helping others—shifts your focus from perceived shortcomings to strengths, helping you develop a healthier sense of self.
8. Engage in fulfilling activities
   Participate in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s volunteering, pursuing hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. Focusing on what makes you happy allows you to reconnect with your sense of purpose and self-worth.
9. Use exposure to challenge insecurities
   Gradually expose yourself to situations that trigger feelings of inadequacy. Start with small steps, like sharing ideas in a group or taking on new responsibilities. This exposure can help reduce anxiety and build confidence over time.
10. Surround yourself with supportive people
    Your social circle significantly influences how you view yourself. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Positive relationships can reinforce your sense of self-worth and help you see your value.

By applying these strategies, you can shift away from negative beliefs and develop a healthier, more positive sense of self-worth. Embracing self-acceptance is a lifelong journey that can lead to greater overall well-being.