Kristine Chang explores the difference between self-worth and self-confidence, drawing on Dr. Taryn Marie's definitions. She argues that your value isn't determined by outcomes like finishing a 10-page essay, but by the effort and growth you invest in yourself.
Hello. It is a privilege to know me as a person. These are the words you should remind yourself of often. While it might initially seem egotistical or narcissistic, that's not the intention. The truth is, you are a gift to those around you, a source of joy, love, and connection. Your presence, simply being alive and healthy, is meaningful to at least one person every day. Even if you were halfway across the world, someone would still think of you, not because of what you have, but because of how you make them feel and what you contribute to their life. This isn't about inflating your ego, but it's about embracing the confidence that comes with knowing your worth and recognizing your positive impact on others. This brings me to a thought I've been reflecting on. What is the difference between self-worth and self-confidence? According to Dr. Taryn Marie, self-worth is an internal belief in our inherent value, regardless of our successes or failures. In other words, self-worth is an inherent sense of value that isn't tied to external achievements. On the other hand, self-confidence is often shaped by our actions and accomplishments, deriving from what we do rather than who we are. Understanding this distinction helps us nurture both a deep belief in our intrinsic value and the confidence to share it with the world. How do you find self-worth? From my personal experience, comparing yourself to others can keep you stuck stuck in a cycle of self-doubt and make you forget your inherent value. Instead of measuring yourself against someone else's achievements, focus on how you've grown and evolved over the past year. Recognize that your worth isn't tied to how quickly or perfectly you accomplish things, but rather everyone has their own pace and unique path. Another way to nurture self-worth is to engage in activities that align with your values and well-being rather than just outcomes. For example, if you're tasked with completing a 10-page essay, it's not about finishing it all in one sitting or breaking it into smaller parts for efficiency. It's about acknowledging the effort and intention you bring to the process. Whether you finish it in one day or Or over several. Your worth isn't defined by the result, but by the fact that you showed up and you tried. When you shift the focus from what you do to who you are, you begin to see that your worth isn't dependent on accomplishments. It comes from within, from being kind to yourself, honoring your journey, and knowing that you deserve love and respect simply because you exist.
