Discovering Your Self-Worth Despite Challenging Circumstances
Strategies to Increase Self-Worth
Does life feel like a constant struggle? Do you feel overwhelmed and frustrated much of the time? Do you wish you could experience something better? Fortunately, you can enjoy the fulfilling life you deserve.
Success is available to you, even in the midst of challenging circumstances. It’s also important to remember that your self-worth is not defined by your situation.
What holds you back? Take some time today to question the beliefs that limit your potential. If you view a challenging circumstance as a wall that’s impossible to climb, you may simply need a fresh perspective. Within you is everything you need to thrive and excel. The more you question the validity of your limiting beliefs, the more success you’ll experience in your life.
Think of a circumstance you believe is preventing you from achieving something you want. Write it down, then prepare to challenge that limiting belief. When you do, you’ll begin moving toward the success you deserve.
Use these strategies to maintain positive self-worth, regardless of your circumstances:
1. Find the Cause
What is the root cause of the circumstance in your life? Sometimes, limiting beliefs serve as warning signs that help you avoid danger. What can you learn from this experience so you can avoid triggering a similar situation in the future?
If the cause of your situation isn’t clear, ask trusted friends or family members for their perspective. Others often see patterns or insights that we overlook, and their input can be valuable in identifying the source of your difficulty.
2. Get Past the Blame Game
You can often be your own worst critic. Fortunately, negative self-talk usually has very little basis in reality. Choose to replace the doubts of your inner critic with more productive, empowering thoughts.
Once a negative thought has taught its lesson, it has served its purpose. Holding onto those thoughts allows them to form a distorted self-image that minimizes your talents and strengths—and that imbalance holds you back.
Instead of dwelling on negativity, learn the lesson and commit to moving forward. Identify what you can do differently to avoid repeating the situation. When negative thoughts arise, consciously replace them with constructive self-talk.
3. Cut Yourself Some Slack
Recognize that you’re human. Everyone makes mistakes, but your attitude determines your altitude in life. You are valuable regardless of your current predicament. You remain worthwhile even when you stumble or fall short.
Your circumstances are not judgments—they are feedback and opportunities to learn and grow.
4. Make the Most of It
When you recognize your worth despite your circumstances, you’ll begin to make the most of every opportunity. Obstacles can become stepping stones simply by shifting your focus.
Instead of feeling helpless, ask yourself, “What’s great about this?” Every situation holds value if you’re willing to look for it.
5. Ask for Help
Loved ones and friends often see strengths in you that go unnoticed. Ask them what they believe your strengths are. This is where self-worth is revealed—everyone has something meaningful to contribute.
Once you recognize your unique talents, gifts, and abilities, life begins to look different. You’ll seek opportunities to use those gifts to serve others, and your confidence will grow as you conquer challenges that once intimidated you.
Instead of allowing circumstances to define you, you’ll take control and make your own rules.
6. Live One Day at a Time
Despite your best efforts, some days bring one frustration after another. When that happens, you have a choice: allow circumstances to defeat you, or choose a more positive perspective.
Resolve today to identify your strengths, learn from difficult situations, and experience the joy you were created to enjoy. Rather than tying your self-worth to your circumstances, choose to see yourself clearly.
You were created with unique talents and gifts. When you discover those gifts and put them to use, you’ll truly understand how valuable you are.
Valorie Lasley
Certified Life Coach
Areas of Expertise:
• Trauma-Informed Coaching
• Spiritual Mindset
