Shaping Factor | Influence of Self Worth | How to Handle Healthily |
Early Experiences | Secure attachments, positive feedback, sense of belonging foster positive self-beliefs. Inconsistent care, harsh criticism, or exclusion erode self-worth | Therapy to heal attachment wounds and reframe childhood experiences. Build secure attachments with supportive people in adulthood. Practice self-compassion and counteracting the negative inner critic. |
Life Events | Successes and overcoming adversity build self-efficacy. Repeated failures, especially without support, can lead to feelings of inadequacy. | Focus on effort over outcomes. View setbacks as learning opportunities. Seek mentorship or support during setbacks to foster resilience |
Relationships | Healthy relationships based on love, respect, and encouragement reinforce self-worth. Toxic relationships damage self-esteem and internalize negative messages. | Prioritize healthy relationships and set boundaries with those who are harmful. Process previous unhealthy relationships through therapy or journaling. Learn to recognize and choose partners or friends who support your growth. |
Internal Dialouge | A kind, encouraging inner voice bolsters self-worth. Harsh self-criticism and perfectionism damage it. | Practice mindfulness to become aware of self-talk patterns. Challenge negative thoughts with evidence or a more compassionate perspective. Regularly engage in activities that foster a sense of competence and worth. |
Media & Societal Messages | Internalized messages about beauty, success, and worthiness can impact self-perception. | Critically evaluate media messages and set limits on harmful social media content. Cultivate a diverse social circle to see various examples of success and worthiness. Focus on your own values and path, not societal expectations. |