Unlocking Self-Confidence vs. Self-Worth: Why It Matters (and How to Cultivate Both)
Is it possible to be self-confident and yet suffer from low self-worth? And why does it even matter?
Even though these terms are used interchangeably, they are distinctly different. It’s important to our mental and emotional well-being to understand the difference because it impacts all areas of our lives – health, relationships, finances, career & especially personal fulfillment.
Self-Confidence
Do you believe in your abilities & skills? That’s self-confidence – the belief that you can overcome obstacles, accomplish your objectives, and deal with any situation that arises.
This confidence is often based on external situations, so it can fluctuate depending on what’s happening in your life and whether you see it as a success or failure.
Self-Worth
On the other hand, self-worth is the respect and value we place on ourselves as unique people, regardless of our accomplishments or shortcomings. It is the ingrained conviction that we are deserving of respect, love, and happiness simply because we exist.
In contrast to self-confidence, self-worth is internal and unchanging; it is constant and not dependent on external circumstances or approval of others.
Self-worth is the foundation of our mental and emotional resilience, whereas self-confidence gives us the courage to act and follow our goals.
Even the strongest levels of self-confidence can be fragile and quickly rattled by setbacks or criticism if we lack a strong sense of self-worth.
In essence, self-confidence is about believing in what you can do, while self-worth is about accepting and honoring who you are.
Both are necessary for leading a happy and authentic life, but fostering your sense of worth paves the way for personal fulfillment and courage in the face of challenges.
5 Ways to Foster A Strong Sense of Self-Worth:
- Practice Self-Compassion
Setting exceptionally high standards for yourself can sometimes lead to self-criticism and perfectionism. Remember, you’re only human – give yourself the same forgiveness, kindness and understanding you would offer a friend.
- Set Boundaries
Protect your time, energy and emotional well-being by learning to say ‘no’ to tasks or commitments that don’t align with your values or goals. Risk disappointing others over dishonouring your own needs.
- Celebrate Achievements and Failures
Pause to celebrate your achievements before moving to the next goal. Also embrace failure as an opportunity for growth. Reframe failure as a natural part of the learning process and celebrate the lessons learned from any setbacks.
- Build Meaningful Relationships
Surround yourself with supportive and authentic individuals who celebrate your successes and lift you up during tough time. Building meaningful connections based on mutual respect, trust, and empathy can provide a valuable support system.
- Shift Your Mindset
Engaging in practices such as hypnosis can foster self-awareness and a sense of inner worth independent of external validation. Hypnotherapy allows you to enter a state of heightened suggestibility where you are more receptive to positive suggestions and affirmations. Hypnotists can use this state to help clients reframe negative self-talk, challenge limiting beliefs, and instill empowering thoughts and beliefs that support a healthy sense of self-worth.
Experimenting with some or all of these techniques can go a long way in helping you cultivate a deep and enduring sense of worthiness that positively impacts every aspect of your life.