Self-worth is different from self-esteem in that self-esteem is the basis of how we look at ourselves and self-worth measures out value as a being. For a number of different reasons, the value that we place in ourselves can deplete over time. Experiencing abuse and neglect can especially cause self-worth to plummet as we may interpret these events as meaning we were never good enough for love or care. The benefits of having positive self-worth includes having a fulfilling life, healthy relationships, extra motivation, and a more positive outlook on life.
Self-compassion is the kindness and care that we extend to ourselves. Every person deserves self-compassion regardless of any factors. Braehler and Neff (2020) state that in order to be self-compassionate we have to:
be kind to ourselves vs. judging ourselves
find common humanity vs. isolating ourselves
be mindful vs. over-identifying with thoughts
Empowering yourself through fierce self-compassion is a way to deactivate shame and reclaim your inherent power back.
Self-Compassion Statements To Tell Yourself
The statements included here are just a few ways that you can challenge the judgement, isolation, and over-identification of thoughts that may creep in. Being mindful of our thought patterns without judgement as well as curiously challenging the way we speak to ourselves can help to shape our inner world to be more compassionate. The next time that you observe talking to yourself like you are your own worst enemy, try one of these statements instead:
"You're doing the best you can with what you have."
"I deserve to be love even if I'm leaning to love myself."
"I believe in myself and trust my own wisdom."
"I have the chance to get back up even if I fall."
"Not everyone will choose me, but I choose me."
"What I'm feeling right now might not feel like healing, but it is."
Braehler, C., & Neff, K. (2020). Self-compassion in PTSD. In Emotion in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (pp. 567-596). Academic Press. PDF
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