Why Shifting From Self-Esteem to Self-Worth Matters

I think the first thing we have to do here before we can start this life changing shift is to clarify what sets these two concepts apart. They are often used synonymously but in fact they play two very different roles in our concept of self. It’s important that we get clear on those roles so we can start functioning in the world from a space of true confidence rather than one that is dependent upon external validation and achievement. So let's get into it.

What Is Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem is a measure of how much you value yourself based on external factors like achievements, feedback, or validation. Self-esteem is based on how you feel. And what makes feelings unreliable when it comes to cultivating unwavering confidence is that they can change and they can be easily influenced. The external world plays a strong part in how high or low your self-esteem is based on how an outcome makes you feel. 

The Rollercoaster of Self-Esteem

Let's talk through a few examples of where this might show up for you, or in reality where it has absolutely already shown up for you. None of us can claim never being a victim to the boost and crashes in self-esteem. When looking through these examples, think of it like a chart that looks like a wild roller coaster with intense highs and lows. For every boost the level rises and for dip the level lowers. 

📈 You finish a major project that you have dedicated a lot of time and effort into. You feel competent and successful.

📉 You miss a deadline for something that was important to you, and it leaves you feeling inadequate.

📈 You receive a compliment on something you did at work which makes you feel valued.

📉 You receive negative feedback on something you created that you were proud of. What originally made you proud has now led to you doubting yourself.

📈 You get dressed up for an event and leave the house feeling like a total hottie.

📉 One negative comment about your appearance at the party derails your confidence.

Do we see what's happening? We’re spiking and plummeting our confidence by letting our self esteem run the show. This would be like looking at a chart for unhealthy and irregular blood sugar levels and while this might not be physically as dangerous, it’s certainly mentally exhausting. Depending on external validation is definitely not giving you your best opportunity to have unwavering confidence. To get that level of unshakable trust in yourself, we have to shift to something far more stable—self-worth.

What Is Self-Worth and How Is It Different from Self-Esteem?

Self-worth comes from within YOU and only YOU. It is the unshakable knowledge that you provide value in the world. It is a belief system you build within yourself that is independent of any successes or failures in your life. It is not an evaluation of self like self-esteem is. Self-worth is the internal validation you give yourself as the reminder that you are good enough, you are lovable, and that you belong. It is the foundation of your confidence and without a strong sense of your worth in this world, you will be shaken. You will be taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions that you did not sign up for and most likely will not enjoy.

Why Letting Self-Esteem Drive Can Be Harmful

When we let self esteem drive, we are putting ourselves at risk of:

🚨Emotional instability

🚨Perfectionism

🚨Burnout

🚨Codependency

🚨Jealousy

🚨Fear of failure

🚨A lack of resilience

🚨People-pleasing

🚨Loss of identity 

Let’s get real for a second…How many of those do you or have you seen within yourself? I could check all the boxes. Wouldn't it feel so much better to take control of those things for yourself?

The Power of Self-Worth

We can’t control what other people think or say or believe about us, but we can control what we think and say and believe about ourselves. The shift away from self-esteem and into self-worth will without a doubt change your entire life. You will get off that roller coaster of emotional instability and find yourself on solid ground again as the worthy version of you that already exists. We just have to stop the ride and tap into our self worth.

Ready to Make the Shift?

If you’re ready to step off the rollercoaster of self-esteem and build a solid foundation of self-worth, join Your Moxie Momentum this April for our transformative series.

Over four powerful weeks, you’ll uncover your strengths, release the weight of outside opinions, and cultivate self-love. By the end of the month, you’ll feel more empowered, resilient, and deeply rooted in your own worth—free from the need for anyone else’s approval.

Ready to reserve your spot to begin this life-changing shift?