There is always this one person who seems to have it all – beauty, brains, love, wealth. Being around this person can be uncomfortable because you may compare yourself to them and feel inadequate. The feeling of inadequacy is normal. What is not normal is allowing that feeling to overwhelm you.
When low self-worth or self-esteem becomes a long-term thing, then there is a problem. If not checked, it can lead to other complicated matters like anxiety, depression and even substance abuse. In other words, having a healthy self-worth should not be overlooked. That cycle of negativity should be broken and here are 13 ways of achieving that.
13 ways to improve your self-worth
1. Identify the negative feelings you have about yourself

To boost your self-worth, you need to do a little bit of reflection about your life. What are those things that you do not like about yourself? Is it your looks? Intellect? Financial status? Note those negative thoughts and if possible, write them down in a journal. Taking note of these negativities will help you identify where the problem began.
2. Say something positive about yourself

You may think this is easier said than done but a verbal affirmation of your good qualities can go a long way to boosting your self-worth. If you are having problems about your looks, take a good look at the mirror and focus on your better assets. For instance, you may not have the much coveted pointed nose but your eyes are to die for. Focus on that and tell yourself that you are beautiful and enough.
3. Identify your core values

What are your core values? Does your lifestyle reflect those values? For instance, if your core value is to focus on things that make you happy no matter what anyone else thinks, and you are currently not practicing it, then you should try to get back on track. Keep discovering yourself and what you can do, what you believe in, what is most important to you and you will find yourself shutting out those negative noise around you.
4. Heal from your past

Many causes of low self esteem are due to past experiences. You may have had a traumatic experience in the past which has affected the way you see yourself today. But bear in mind that the only one who can bring you down is yourself. Learn to hold your destiny in your own hands. Do not let past experiences define you. Instead, use them as a stepping stone to be a better person, not just for yourself, but for your environment.
5. Stay away from negative people

There are people who have seen so much shege they do not see anything positive in this life. As much as this thinking is pitiable, you should make it a duty to reduce your interactions with such people. If possible, stay totally away from them before they completely infect you with their negativity.
Don’t assume you are strong enough to withstand them. It will shock you to know you are not. Instead, surround yourself with people who have positive vibes. They will lift you up and make you feel good about yourself.
6. Identify what you are good at
You may not be the best footballer, but you make a great chef. In terms of academics, you may be called an olodo, but you are a great listener, meaning that people find it easy to talk to you about their secrets. You see, no one is born useless. There is always something about you that makes you stand out. It is just that you have not discovered it yet, which is why you are struggling with your self worth. Start today to discover yourself and what makes you tick. In no time, you will be able to walk into a room with your head held high.
7. Be assertive

People with low self-worth are either pushovers or extremely aggressive towards others. Learn to strike a balance when you are interacting with others. Respect their opinions and needs but always make it clear you expect the same from them. One useful tip is to pick up hints and tips from people you admire and emulate what they do while still being yourself.
8. Do something creative
Creativity enables you stimulate your brain. The more you use your brain, the better effect it will have on your self-worth. Once you are able to identify what you are good at, allow your creativity to shine. For instance, if you great at cooking, you can explore several creative ways to use an ingredient. Keeping yourself busy with creative stuffs will help your overall physical, emotional and mental health.
9. Challenge yourself
Learn to leave your comfort zone and challenge yourself with something totally different from what you are used to. This may sound like a daunting task but you will be grateful in the end if you try it. Take a look at the successful people you know. None of them got to where they are today by staying in their comfort zones. When you able to throw a challenge and overcome it, you will definitely feel on top of the world. That is a great way of boosting your self worth.
10. Learn the art of saying no

Do not make yourself too available, otherwise someone will try to take advantage of you. Learn to politely turn down requests that do not align with your interests. Saying yes all the time may increase being overburdened, resentful, angry and depressed. Do not be scared that you may spoil your relationship when you say no. Continue saying it. With time, others will learn and adjust accordingly.
11. Stop worrying about what others think

Only you know yourself and what you are capable of. What you believe in should matter most. Do your best to seek excellence even if you are not perfect. As long as you do what is right, the rest is just noise.
12. Make a list of all your accomplishments

It is easy to forget what you have accomplished when you are dealing with a low self-worth. So, you should make a list of your achievements, no matter how little they may seem. Go back to that list from time to time to remind you of the great person that you are.
13. Be kind to yourself

Last but not the least, try to look your best and feel your best. Be kind to yourself when you are being self critical. Often times, we try to comfort others better than we comfort ourselves. Tell yourself that you matter and you deserve the best.
ALSO READ: Gearing up for 2025: Why December is the perfect time for self-reflection