Self-worth isn’t earned. It’s not a trophy, a title, or the approval of someone else.
It’s the quiet, unshakable knowing that you are enough. The unfortunate thing is, most of us bury it beneath years of self-doubt, toxic comparisons, and chasing validation that was never ours to need.
Take baseball player Trea Turner, for instance. After joining the Phillies, he found himself in a slump—until a standing ovation from fans in August 2023 reignited his confidence.
His comeback, now featured in a 25-minute documentary, The Turnaround, is proof of what happens when someone starts to truly believe in their worth.
So what if, like Trea, you stopped looking outward and started reclaiming what was always yours? What if your self-worth wasn’t a question to answer but a truth to remember?
“If you believe you’re worthy, that will take you further,” says Marisa Peer, the creator of Rapid Transformational Therapy® and trainer of Mindvalley’s Rapid Transformational Hypnotherapy™ for Abundance program.
So this is your wake-up call. It’s time to rewrite the narrative, crush the myths, and show up for yourself like never before.
What is self-worth?
The “self-worth” definition is essentially your unshakeable belief in… well, yourself. It’s that inner knowing that you deserve respect, love, and happiness simply for being who you are.
When you like yourself, your life is extraordinary.
— Marisa Peer, trainer of Mindvalley’s Uncompromised Life program
According to Tatiana Rivera Cruz, LICSW, a mental health therapist with ADHDAdvisor.org, one of the biggest common misconceptions about self-worth is that it’s something you have to earn—through achievements, external validation, or living up to societal standards.
What’s more, people often link it to productivity, relationships, or their self-image based on how others perceive them. But here’s the thing: having a sense of self isn’t about proving your value or meeting expectations.
Trea’s story is a great reminder of this. When his performance dipped, it wasn’t his skills that had disappeared; it was his belief in himself.
But the moment he stopped tying his value to external results and embraced the unwavering support around him? He tapped into a confidence that reignited his potential.
It’s the same for all of us. Recognizing your inherent value isn’t arrogance or being self-centered; it’s simply owning the truth of who you are as a human being.
Why is it important?
A strong sense of self is the backbone of how you move through life. It’s the quiet confidence that shapes your decisions, the courage behind your boundaries, and the magnet that draws relationships aligned with your values.
“When you like yourself, your life is extraordinary,” Marisa highlights. “When you don’t, well, it really isn’t.”
And it’s as simple as that, really. When you own it, your sense of worth spills into everything you do—loud and proud. Tatiana adds that a person with a solid sense of value demonstrates:
- Healthy boundaries in relationships
- Good communication skills
- Confidence and self-respect
- Regular self-care practices
- Kindness and respect toward others
- The ability to handle criticism with grace
- A positive outlook on life
Research shows that people with strong self-worth experience higher satisfaction, resilience, and a sense of unapologetic confidence.
But when it’s missing, cracks begin to form. This happened to Trea, where it showed in every aspect of his game.
At the plate, his swings were hesitant, missing the confident follow-through he was known for. On the field, his reactions slowed, and routine plays suddenly felt uncertain. Even his body language—slumped shoulders, sidelong glances—reflected the internal battle he was fighting.
The pressure of performance magnified his self-doubt, trapping him in a cycle of overthinking and hesitation. These are common effects of low self-esteem that can often spiral into negative thinking and a sense of disconnection.
The silver lining, though, is that with the right tools—like self-acceptance, reframing of negative thoughts, and meaningful connections—those cracks can be repaired.
Looking at Trea’s comeback, it was fueled by something powerful: the collective belief of his team and fans. That support didn’t just lift him but reminded him to trust in himself and the abilities he’d worked so hard to build.
Because the truth is, when you anchor yourself in your worth, you stop chasing and start creating the life you deserve.
Self-worth vs. self-esteem
Self-worth and self-esteem get tossed around a lot like they’re the same thing, but they’re playing two very different games. Knowing the difference? That’s your golden ticket to feeling worthy and seeing yourself clearly.
Self-worth is all about internal validation. It’s that quiet, undeniable truth that you matter—no strings attached. Achievements? Opinions? None of it changes your worth.
Self-esteem, though, loves a little outside cheerleading or as Marisa says, “Nothing boosts self-esteem like praise.” It’s tied to how you feel about yourself based on praise, recognition, or what you accomplish. And while there’s nothing wrong with feeling proud of your wins, leaning on external approval too much can leave you wobbling.
The takeaway? Start with self-worth. It’s the foundation. When that’s rock solid, self-esteem is just the cherry on top.
And by improving self-worth and, consequently, self-esteem, Tatiana points out, “we create confidence and resilience to manage life challenges.”
15 self-worth mistakes you’re probably making
Sometimes, the things that hold your self-worth back are the habits you don’t even notice. These common mistakes can quietly chip away at how you see yourself:
- Tying your worth to achievements, like your job title, salary, or social status.
- Letting self-criticism run wild instead of practicing self-compassion.
- Chasing external validation like it’s the only thing that matters.
- Feeling like you’re never good enough, no matter what you do.
- Staying in toxic relationships that drain your energy and confidence.
- Saying yes to everyone and everything, even at your own expense.
- Neglecting your needs, whether it’s rest, nutrition, or just time for yourself.
- Perfectionism and the “all or nothing” mindset—where anything less than perfect feels like failure.
- Avoiding vulnerability, thinking emotions make you weak.
- Self-sacrificing to gain approval, while neglecting your own well-being.
- Negative self-talk and self-limiting beliefs, accepting them as truth without questioning.
- Fearing rejection or failure that keeps you from taking risks or stepping up.
- Resisting change by sticking to old habits that hold you back from growth.
- Comparing yourself to others, basing your worth on someone else’s achievements.
- Holding onto past failures and letting them define you instead of learning from them.
With Trea, his slump on the field is a reminder of how much mindset shapes success. Because, when push comes to shove, how you see yourself is the one thing no one else can give you—and no one can take away.
Once you spot these mistakes, you can start taking the steps to rebuild your self-worth from the inside out.
How to build self-worth: 5 tips from Mindvalley’s mindset transformation expert
Building self-worth isn’t about ticking off achievements or chasing approval. It’s about what you do every day to remind yourself you matter.
It’s proof that when you lean into the right mindset, you, too, can reignite your potential and show up as your best self.
If you believe you’re worthy, that will take you further.
— Marisa Peer, trainer of Mindvalley’s Uncompromised Life program
Here are five game-changing tips to help you own your worth like never before.
1. Practice self-compassion
It starts with being kind to yourself. So treat yourself like your best mate—with patience, understanding, and a little cheerleading when things get tough.
Here are a few things you can do:
- Make self-talk positive, like “I’m figuring it out” or “I’ve got this.” The thing is, how you talk to yourself shapes everything and as Marisa says, “The most important words you will ever hear in your entire life are the ones you say to yourself.”
- Stop comparing. Your journey is yours—it doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s highlight reel on social media. Every time you catch yourself sizing up your life against someone else’s, pause and remind yourself that you’re running a different race.
- Learn to put up boundaries. Saying no to what doesn’t serve you isn’t selfish—it’s self-respect. Whether it’s declining extra work or stepping away from draining relationships, boundaries protect your energy and your peace.
When it comes down to it, you wouldn’t let anyone else treat you badly, so why make an exception for yourself?
2. Celebrate wins—big or small
“If you want to change your life on a dime, make self-praise familiar and make criticizing yourself unfamiliar,” Marisa advises. In other words, give yourself credit where it’s due… because no one else is going to do it for you like you can.
Start simple. Say “well done” when you accomplish something, even if it feels small. Write down one thing you’re proud of every day. Treat yourself to a little joy, whether it’s a dance party in your living room or an extra dollop of whipped cream on your coffee.
Then, take it a step further: make it a habit. When you regularly celebrate your efforts, you reinforce your self-confidence and build a foundation of self-worth that becomes harder to shake.
3. Visualize yourself succeeding
Your mind doesn’t just believe what you tell it—it works to make those beliefs real. It’s as Marisa says: “When you believe you’re going to do something amazing, whatever you believe, you’ll make it real.”
That’s the power of visualization. Research has found that imagining yourself doing something well can actually help you perform better. When you picture your success clearly, your brain reacts as if you’re really doing it.
Here’s how you can practice visualizing:
- Close your eyes and imagine yourself succeeding: acing that presentation, feeling self-confident in a room full of people, or simply waking up every day with a sense of self-worth.
- Picture the details vividly—what you’re wearing, how you’re standing, even the sound of someone saying, “You did an incredible job.”
Two minutes a day is enough to start rewiring your beliefs. Keep it vivid and positive, and watch as your life starts to align with the success you’re visualizing.
4. Invest in self-care
When you think of self-care, what comes to mind? Bubble baths and candles? Those are great, too, but it goes deeper than that. It’s about owning what you need to feel your best—mentally, physically, and emotionally.
It starts with small, intentional acts. This could be a morning walk, journaling, or positive affirmations when and where you need it—any kind of self-love techniques that help rewire your mindset and improve mental health.
Marisa suggests making it a priority every day. She says, “The actions you take on a daily basis determine the kind of person you become, the kind of life you lead, the kind of success you have.”
Tatiana, too, highlights the importance of sticking with the process. “Being patient and consistent,” she adds, “helps us value and enjoy the hard work that would take us to our ultimate goals.”
5. Surround yourself with supportive people
“Damaged people damage people,” says Marisa. If you’re surrounded by negativity or toxicity, it can lead to low self-esteem, sometimes without you even realizing it.
That’s why, as Tatiana highlights, it’s crucial to “be near a good support system that reminds you of your worth.” Supportive people are the ones who lift you up on the days you can’t do it yourself. They celebrate your wins, encourage your growth, and call you out (with love) when you’re stuck in self-doubt.
Now, take a hard look at your circle. Who truly inspires and uplifts you? And who drains your energy or undermines your confidence? Spend more time with the first group and set boundaries with the second.
And don’t just find your people—be one of them. Cheer others on, hold space for their dreams, and remind them of their worth, too.
Because when you surround yourself with the right kind of people, everyone rises together.
BONUS: Best resources for improving self-worth
Building self-worth isn’t a one-and-done deal—it’s a journey. And like any journey, having the right tools can make all the difference.
From powerful quotes to transformative meditations, these resources are here to inspire, guide, and give you that extra nudge toward becoming your most confident self.
Inspiring quotes and affirmations on self-worth
Sometimes, a few well-chosen words can hit you right in the feels and shift your perspective entirely. Whether it’s a timeless quote or a powerful affirmation, these phrases are here to remind you that your worth is embraced.
Stick these on your mirror, save them on your phone, or recite them during your morning routine.
Quotes to inspire
These self-worth quotes are perfect for moments when you need a little encouragement:
- “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
- “You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anybody.” — Maya Angelou
- “When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life.” — Jean Shinoda Bolen
- “You are more powerful than you think no matter what you’ve been told in the past.” — Vishen
- “When you know that you are enough, you give the whole world permission to also know that you are enough.” — Marisa Peer
Affirmations to repeat
Turn these words of affirmation into daily reminders to reinforce your sense of self:
- “I am enough.”
- “I am worthy just as I am.”
- “I choose to speak to myself with kindness.”
- “I deserve respect, love, and happiness.”
- “I honor my journey and trust in my growth.”
Books
If you’re ready to dig deeper, these books will guide you through the highs, lows, and breakthroughs to help you find your inner confidence and embrace who you truly are.
- Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference by Guy Kawasaki and Madisun Nuismer. Packed with real-world wisdom and game-changing insights from icons like Steve Wozniak and Jane Goodall, this book doesn’t just tell you to be remarkable—it shows you how.
- New Happy: Getting Happiness Right in a World That’s Got It Wrong by Stephanie Harrison. Society’s definition of joy—Old Happy—is flawed. But with practical steps and stunning visuals, New Happy can help you embrace self-love, connection, and purpose, all while making the world a brighter place.
- The Wealth Money Can’t Buy: The 8 Hidden Habits to Live Your Richest Life by Robin Sharma. What if wealth wasn’t about money but about the things that truly matter—like joy, purpose, and connection? Robin reveals eight transformative habits, sharing lessons from billionaires and world leaders to help you create a deeply fulfilling life.
- Becoming Flawesome: The Key to Living an Imperfectly Authentic Life by Kristina Mänd-Lakhiani. What’s holding you back from true happiness? In her book, Kristina takes you on a deeply personal journey to help you break free from perfectionism and embrace your perfectly imperfect self.
- Happy Days: The Guided Path from Trauma to Profound Freedom and Inner Peace by Gabrielle Bernstein. If you feel stuck, anxious, or held back by the past, Gabby offers a step-by-step guide to transform trauma into strength, peace, and lasting happiness.
Meditations and guided practices
Meditation helps you hit the refresh button on your mind. It’s a great way to rebuild and remind yourself of the worth that’s already yours.
Here are a few you can try:
1. For confidence and self-esteem
This guided meditation with Marisa herself helps you unlearn low self-esteem and reconnect with the confident, authentic you.
2. For instant confidence
Let legendary hypnotist Paul McKenna (who’s also the trainer of Mindvalley’s Total Self-Confidence program) guide you into a powerful trance for an immediate confidence boost. Just make sure you’re in a safe, relaxed space before you dive in to make the most of it.
3. For rediscovering your self-worth
It’s time to claim the life you deserve. Let motivational powerhouse Lisa Nichols (and trainer of Mindvalley’s Speak and Inspire program) guide you in this 25-minute meditation to release old stories and embrace the truth—that you are enough, just as you are.
For even more meditations to boost your self-worth and everything that comes with it, check out the Mindvalley app. It’s your go-to for guided practices that empower and inspire.
Stories and examples of self-worth
Real-life stories, like Trea’s, remind us that we’re not alone in the struggle—or the triumph. The following examples of people reclaiming their worth can help inspire you to take charge of your own narrative.
Mackenzie Watters: From self-doubt to purpose
Mackenzie Watters, inner sales team representative of I Am Enough LLC in the United States, struggled with low self-worth and didn’t believe she could find fulfilling work.
“The biggest positive changes I’ve noticed are an increase in my self-worth and my confidence,” she says. Now, as part of Marisa’s team at I Am Enough LLC, she helps others transform their lives through RTT, finding purpose and joy in her career.
Monique Rosteius: From pain to empowerment
Monique Rosteius, an OTPTA in Canada, transformed her self-doubt and healed from the negative beliefs shaped by a 13-year partnership and a challenging career.
“My self-doubt has almost been completely erased while my self-esteem, my ability to forgive myself, and [knowing] that I deserve a better life has been dramatically changed for the better,” she testifies.
Now grounded and confident, she embraces her worth, forgiveness, and a brighter future, knowing she is truly enough.
John Maybee: From self-criticism to self-confidence
At 71, John Maybee from Canada transformed his mindset on and off the hockey rink.
“I used to be very negative about my performance in hockey,” he explains. “I would nitpick every mistake I made during the course of a game.”
By embracing a positive attitude and letting go of self-criticism, he found renewed self-worth and confidence, improving both his game and his outlook on life.
Awaken your unstoppable spirit
If you’re wondering what happens when you reclaim your self-worth, look at Trea Turner’s rise to glory for inspiration. With a boost of confidence and support, he turned his slump into success.
Now imagine what could change for you.
Marisa Peer’s free webinar, 5 Steps To Reprogram Your Mind For Abundance, taps directly into your subconscious mind—the place where your most powerful beliefs live—and rewires it for abundance in wealth, health, and love.
Through her signature approach, you’ll interrupt negative thought patterns, unlock peak confidence, and experience a profound shift in how you see yourself and your life. It’s fast, effective, and grounded in the science of neuroplasticity. If you’ve ever wondered how to silence self-doubt and truly feel worthy, this is your moment.
Sign up now for free and see the change for yourself.
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