Self-worth and self-value are crucial elements in how we perceive and treat ourselves in our daily lives. These two concepts work hand in hand, and it’s important to learn how to use them to appreciate ourselves through our actions and words.

Self-worth is a feeling or belief that you are a good and deserving person who deserves respect and compassion. It is the foundation of your being and shapes your choices, relationships, and life path. On the other hand, self-value is more of a behavioral aspect of self-worth. It is the driving force that allows us to walk the walk and align our actions with what we value.

If you do not value yourself, it can lead to negative self-criticism, low self-esteem, and a depreciating self-image. To value yourself, you must first acknowledge your inner critic, which is the voice inside you that isn’t always kind. It often persuades you not to take that leap of faith or believe in yourself.

Acknowledging your inner critic is a critical first step in learning to value yourself. It helps you regain your power and take charge of your life. Many people live their entire lives with their inner voice on autopilot, not realizing how much it has become a dictator in their lives.

The next step in valuing yourself is to receive compliments. When someone compliments you, do not wave it off or send it back as you would not want to appear needy. Most of us don’t believe that we deserve compliments, and we don’t view ourselves in the same light that others see us. The next time someone says something nice about you, believe it and receive their words fully.

Another way to value yourself is to be grateful for the effort you put into everything you do, whether big or small. It is not easy to show effort in everything you do, but this gratitude helps you come to terms with the fact that you are doing your best and celebrating small progress.

If things do not go as planned, practice forgiveness. Holding grudges, whether from others or yourself, is like intentionally plaguing yourself with burdens that you do not need to carry. Forgiveness is the free remedy that can alleviate so much suffering when we hold onto bitterness.

Words are powerful, and positive words often carry significant weight. Speaking affirmations in the mirror is a simple yet potent tool in valuing yourself. When you catch your own gaze and fill your space with positive words, you send that energy deep into your psyche. Affirmations that boost self-worth might include “I am loved and loving” or “Today, I accept myself as I am.”

Giving attention to your dreams is another way to empower yourself to believe that you are worthy of those dreams. Whether you would like to write them out in your journal or create a vision board, giving attention to your dreams fulfills your soul and heart in a spiritually and emotionally uplifting way.

Comparison is the thief of joy, and it is crucial to let go of comparison to value yourself better. You are unique, and there is no one else out there quite like you. Instead of focusing on what others have over you, focus on your unique journey, and get excited about the opportunities to come.

Selfless service is another way to get in touch with your self-worth and value. When we come into the practice of selfless service (Seva, in Sanskrit), we simultaneously feed our self-worth and value. By giving to others, we’re offering something that is uniquely precious, contributing to the world and nurturing our sense of self-worth.

The greatest gift to yourself is accepting yourself as you are right now. There is no use in re-living the past as it is long gone. There is no point in wondering about the future because it has not come yet. The world is more complete when you show up as you, and it will give others the courage to do the same.

If you are not happy, take action and do not settle for less than what you desire. You do not have to tolerate anyone or anything that doesn’t bring you joy and contentment in life. Happiness is a personal choice, and it is up to you to believe that you deserve the best.

When feeling doubtful or that you have failed, think about your end goal or dream. Remember that perseverance is your limitless supply of fuel to keep moving towards your goal. Perseverance fuels our motivation and drives us past difficulties on our journey to success.

In conclusion, self-worth and self-value are key elements to perceive and treat yourself in your everyday life. Valuing yourself and nurturing your sense of self-worth does not require a major change in your life. It is a subtle shift in perspective, a gentle aligning of behavior and beliefs that can have a significant positive impact on your life. You deserve to value yourself and to experience the joy and happiness that come with high esteem and self-worth.