How to Improve Self Worth

On occasion, I am asked to write for various guest columns.  While I specialize in children and teens, I have a lot of adult clients that I see for issues with job satisfaction, parenting, relationships, trauma, and other issues.  One thing we can all benefit from is improved self-worth.  (There are very few people who overestimate their self-worth, and that becomes a whole different topic all together.) Below was my contribution to a guest column on decodinghim.com.  See the entire column here. Here's to starting your week off on the right foot!


Change your perspective, find hobbies you enjoy and balance your life

Look at the glass as half full. People who are able to see the positive side of things are more attractive to others. We all want to spend time with people who are able to turn lemons into lemonade, so when you catch yourself with a negative thought about yourself or a situation, find a way to turn it into a positive. If you really want to put this into practice, try thinking three positive things for every negative. It’s not a long-term suggestion, but something to help get in the habit of finding the positives in life.
Find hobbies you enjoy. Becoming well-rounded allows you to meet a variety of people. Meeting more people means making more friends who share similar interests, and can teach you new things. Sometimes we can’t find time for the hobbies we used to enjoy, so make a point to schedule time in to reconnect with your previous passion. If you haven’t found a hobby you love, look into introductory classes through the local community centers or recreation centers. They often have affordable classes that allow you to try new things without a length time or financial commitment. With so many options, you are bound to find something you like and you may discover strengths you never knew you had.
Balance your life. Life is busy. According to the American Psychological Association, only 37 percent of Americans feel they are actually doing an excellent or very good job of managing their stress. Stress takes a toll on your self worth because it will always seem like you aren’t doing enough. Take inventory and figure out where you need to adjust. If you are working too much, take some of your vacation days and go on vacation- what a concept! If you are slacking off in your health, plan some prep time to make healthy meals for the week and set the alarm on your phone to remind you to take a break and walk around the office building each day. Balance relieves stress and allows you to take care of yourself, which is the most important part of building self worth.