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We noticed that there is a lot of confusion between the two common problems listed in the title. Sometimes we get confused if whether they are alike. The differences can be very small and they can overlap, yes, but they do differ in some very specific aspects.
So, let’s start with the little things. As you read the descriptions below, see if you can identify people with low self-esteem, and people with low self-worth. Then read on to see if you identified them correctly and to learn more about each of these common problems.
The terms self-worth and self-esteem are often used interchangeably. However, their meanings are completely different. Some people focus on boosting self-esteem, while others choose to build self-worth. In fact, the growth of both is necessary in order to stay. Let’s look at some of the key differences between self-esteem and self-worth in order to understand why this is the case.
What is Self-Worth?
Self-worth is the belief that you are loved and valued no matter how you measure yourself. Thus, your self-esteem may drop to the bottom, but you still cling to the idea that you have innate value. It is important. Feeling good doesn’t mean that you no longer value yourself. As a result, you need a positive form of self-awareness that acts like a crutch to stay steady when your self-esteem fluctuates (as everyone does).
You may be wondering where real self-worth comes from. There are different ways to look at this problem. We can say that you are simply worthy because you are human, you have intrinsic value, kindness and competence. Whether you are optimistic, talented, or successful, that’s enough. Self-worth comes from the understanding that you are always able to do good and have a positive impact on the world, no matter how insignificant it may be.
Another point of view is that your self-worth is based on your desires, which, again, are common to everyone. Deep down, you want peace of mind, satisfaction, relief from suffering, fulfilment of your potential and a sense of belonging. These wishes bring you intrinsic value. Just as you respect the wishes of others, it is important that you respect your own as well.
What is Self-Esteem?
Self-esteem is how we judge ourselves. This is our internal assessment of our qualities and our personality. We have healthy self-esteem when what we think, feel, and believe about ourselves is honest and factual. Building and maintaining healthy self-esteem depends on collecting evidence about how we are human.
On the other hand, unhealthy self-esteem can take two extremes. First, you may think too much about yourself, which can lead to falling into the trap of narcissism. When your self-esteem is too high, you either exaggerate your positive qualities or deceive yourself about your flaws and weaknesses. A narcissist may believe that his opinion matters more than anyone else’s, based on the self-perception that he is smarter than everyone else.
On the other hand, when you have low self-esteem, you underestimate – or completely ignore your positive qualities. If you are struggling with low self-esteem, you may be telling yourself that you are stupid, lazy, boring, selfish, inattentive, or ordinary or a bad person because of what you think, say and do. You see yourself through a negative and serious filter. It’s hard to understand why people like your company or genuinely believe the compliments they give you.
Self Esteem vs Self Worth
Self-esteem is what we think, feel and believe in ourselves. Self-worth is, “I am more than this.” This deep knowledge, which I value, that I am loved, is necessary for this life and incomprehensible. They do not believe that I am lovable and worthy. Self-esteem does not last long and does not “work” without self-worth.
When you were abused, you get the message of being “useless” too many times. It’s hard to resist listening to this message all your life. However, its true value is quite detectable. Your value is not based on others taking advantage of you. It is not based on what they think of you, what they say about you, or your wrongdoing. You have tremendous and limitless value. You may not have felt it yet, but you do. And self-knowledge begins with a simple opening to possibilities. Ask yourself, “What if it was worth it? What if I could feel valuable, loved, and good at heart? It’s not easy, but don’t let someone who hasn’t fulfilled their potential get in the way of your life the way you want it. Start believing.
When you are depressed, you may forget you need or deserve love, making it difficult to get out of the pit of worthlessness. Your perception is distorted. Self-worth is about showing the same attitude towards yourself.
How Does Self-Esteem & Self-Worth Affect You?
Healthy self-esteem & self-worth and positive self-esteem have a huge impact on the way we live. Your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs about yourself and your abilities influence your decisions, as well as how you see other people and the world.
Accepting who you are and believing in yourself plays an important role in many areas of your life, such as school, work, romantic and social relationships. Looking at yourself through a positive lens can help you achieve and create the life you want and it can significantly affect your overall health and well-being.
The Bottom Line
So, while self-worth should be your foundation, your spiritual armor in difficult times, this does not mean that self-esteem is unnecessary or irrelevant, but this is only one aspect of seeing things as they really are. In all situations, be it a work environment or a relationship, good self-awareness (healthy self-esteem) will allow you to be more honest about your qualities and thus develop more effectively as a human being. Self-worth and self-esteem complement each other when it comes to our well-being and mental health.
