Reclaim Your Self-Worth: 10 Signs You're Neglecting It

Hey there, friend. Let’s have a heart-to-heart. Have you ever found yourself feeling off without quite knowing why? Maybe you’re feeling a little drained, disconnected, or just not quite you. If that resonates, you’re not alone. More often than not, those feelings point to something deeper: a neglect of our self-worth.

We live in a fast-paced world filled with endless to-dos and expectations—so it’s easy to put ourselves last. But when we forget to nurture our self-worth, we risk losing touch with who we truly are. It’s time to recognize those signs and reclaim your worth. Because, friend, you deserve all the love and care you so freely give to others.

Let’s dive in.

1. You Constantly Seek Validation From Others

I’ve been there—refreshing a post to check for likes or waiting for someone to compliment my work before I feel proud. Sound familiar? When we tie our self-worth to external validation, we give others control over how we feel about ourselves.

Reclaim it: Start by validating yourself. Instead of waiting for someone to tell you you’re enough, tell yourself. Practice daily affirmations like, “I am proud of myself,” or, “I am worthy just as I am.” The more you affirm yourself, the less you’ll need outside approval.

2. You Struggle With Saying No

Do you find yourself overcommitting because you don’t want to let anyone down? This is a biggie. When we say yes to everything, we often say no to our own needs.

Reclaim it: Remember, “no” is a complete sentence. Practice setting healthy boundaries by starting small. For example, if a friend asks for a favor you’re not up for, say, “I’d love to help, but I need to focus on myself right now.” You’re not selfish for prioritizing your well-being—you’re wise.

3. You’re Your Harshest Critic

When you look in the mirror, do you immediately notice flaws? Or do you beat yourself up over small mistakes? This inner critic can erode self-worth faster than anything.

Reclaim it: Replace criticism with compassion. When a negative thought creeps in, pause and ask, “Would I say this to a friend?” Probably not! So speak to yourself with kindness. Say, “I’m learning and growing every day,” instead of, “I’m such a failure.”

4. You Feel Unworthy of Love or Success

Do you find yourself thinking, “I don’t deserve happiness” or, “I’m not good enough to be loved”? These thoughts are self-worth killers. When we believe we’re undeserving, we block the very blessings we’re longing for.

Reclaim it: Challenge those beliefs. Every time you think, “I’m not enough,” counter it with, “I am deserving of all the good things life has to offer.” Write down a list of things you’re proud of—big and small—and read it often to remind yourself of your worth.

5. You’re Stuck in Comparison Mode

Scrolling through social media and feeling like everyone else has it more together than you? Comparison is a thief of joy and a huge indicator that your self-worth needs some love.

Reclaim it: Practice gratitude. Instead of focusing on what others have, reflect on what’s beautiful about your life. Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you’re grateful for every day. The more you focus on your blessings, the less comparison will steal your joy.

6. You Ignore Your Needs

Skipping meals, sacrificing sleep, or neglecting self-care to “push through”? When we ignore our basic needs, we send ourselves the message that we’re not a priority.

Reclaim it: Commit to self-care. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—just consistent. Drink water, eat nourishing meals, and carve out time for rest. Remind yourself that taking care of you is not indulgent—it’s essential.

7. You Feel Guilty for Resting

Do you feel lazy or unproductive when you take a break? This guilt is a sure sign you’re tying your worth to your productivity.

Reclaim it: Redefine success. Instead of measuring your worth by how much you achieve, measure it by how well you nurture yourself. Rest is productive because it recharges you. Give yourself permission to rest, guilt-free.

8. You Struggle With Accepting Compliments

When someone compliments you, do you brush it off or immediately downplay it? This is often rooted in a deep-seated belief that we’re not worthy of praise.

Reclaim it: Practice accepting compliments with grace. Next time someone compliments you, resist the urge to downplay. Simply say, “Thank you.” Then take a moment to let the compliment sink in. You deserve to feel good about yourself!

9. You Stay in Toxic Relationships

Do you tolerate disrespect or mistreatment because you believe it’s what you deserve? This is a painful sign that your self-worth needs healing.

Reclaim it: Recognize your value. You deserve relationships that are rooted in love, respect, and kindness. If someone isn’t treating you well, consider setting boundaries or stepping away. Your peace is priceless.

10. You’re Afraid to Take Up Space

Do you shrink yourself—physically or emotionally—to avoid being seen? Maybe you apologize for things that aren’t your fault or hold back your opinions to keep the peace. This is a sign you’re doubting your worthiness to be fully yourself.

Reclaim it: Own your space. Practice standing tall, speaking your truth, and showing up as your authentic self. You are worthy of being seen, heard, and celebrated just as you are.

How to Reclaim Your Self-Worth

So, how do we reclaim our self-worth when it’s been neglected? Here are some practices that have helped me, and I hope they’ll help you too:

1. Daily Affirmations: Speak loving truths over yourself every morning. Try affirmations like, “I am enough,” or, “I deserve joy and love.”

2. Self-Compassion: Be gentle with yourself. When mistakes happen, remind yourself that you’re human and learning.

3. Surround Yourself With Positivity: Choose relationships and environments that lift you up. Unfollow accounts or step away from people who make you feel small.

4. Gratitude Practice: Focus on the good in your life. Gratitude shifts your perspective and helps you recognize your worth.

5. Therapy or Coaching: If deep-seated beliefs are holding you back, consider seeking professional support. There’s no shame in asking for help.

You Are Worthy, Just as You Are

Friend, I want you to know that your worth isn’t up for debate. You don’t have to earn it, prove it, or seek it from anyone else. It’s already within you.

If you’ve been neglecting your self-worth, now is the perfect time to reclaim it. Start small. Celebrate your wins, honor your needs, and speak kindly to yourself. Bit by bit, you’ll rebuild that foundation of self-love.

You are worthy of love, joy, and every good thing life has to offer. Never forget it. And if you do, come back here for a reminder.

With love and light,
LOVEOWE