Self-Worth
Self-Worth
The good news is this: we are all born with innate self-worth. No matter what happens to us, we can always reclaim our essential value.
The more difficult truth is that damage to self-worth is real. Whether it occurs through verbal, emotional, or physical abuse—or through emotional or physical neglect—it leaves deep wounds that wait patiently for healing. Regardless of who caused the harm—society, caregivers, peers, or systems—we now have the opportunity, the power, and ultimately the responsibility to restore our self-worth and heal what was wounded within us.
When this healing does not take place, many of us seek relief elsewhere. We may turn to people, places, or behaviors—some of them harmful—in an effort to numb the pain that comes from feeling disconnected from our inner worth. Others pursue perfectionism, control, achievement, money, appearance, or power in an attempt to fill the void created by the absence of self-connection.
I wrote the following poem after noticing that a teenage part of me was activated—feeling small, uncertain, and disconnected from self-worth. I invite you to gently identify the part of you that may be in need of support, and to offer it the reminder that self-worth is your innate right.
My worth is not dependent on my humor.
My worth is not dependent on what I do, how I look, how many friends I have, how intelligent I am, or how much money I make.
My worth is innate.
It is constant, consistent, and steady.
My worth is inherent.
It is essential.
It exists simply because I am alive, because I was created, because I am.
Today,
I will simply be.
I will love every bone, muscle, and organ that houses my essential self—my spirit, my soul.
I will love every faculty, capacity, and talent I was given.
I will embrace my personality just as it is.
I will resonate with unconditional love, value, and worth.
I will just be.
I wish all my clients—past, present, and future—that you may be restored to the amazing, beautiful person you already are. If you honor me with the opportunity to work with you, I will do my utmost to guide you in this healing process.
If you feel called to explore this work, please reach out to Shoshana or any of our amazing therapists at Center for Integrative Change. We are here to support you.
About The Author
Shoshana is a licensed clinician (MA) supervised by Jeremy Mast, MS, MDiv, LMFT, CSAT (LMFT 90961). Shoshana works primarily with individual adults as well as couples. Her experience includes trauma, sex addiction, betrayal trauma, as well as a variety of mental health concerns. Shoshana enjoys exploring new adventures in nature and spending time with family and friends.
