Written by Dr. Ken Keis, Expert Leadership
Ken Keis, Ph.D., is a leading global authority on behavioral (personality) assessment strategies and an expert in leadership, purpose, and wellness. He is the President and CEO of Consulting Resource Group International, Inc. (CRG) which has served thousands of organizations worldwide.
Self-worth isn't just a buzzword, it's the foundation of how we perceive ourselves and interact with the world around us. Every day presents us with opportunities that challenge our sense of self-worth, whether subtly or profoundly. Some sail through life with unwavering confidence, while others grapple with feelings of inadequacy and doubt, questioning their worthiness of life's blessings.
Self-worth, at its core, is about recognizing our inherent value and believing in our abilities and potential. It's the lens through which we evaluate our actions, appearance, thoughts, and emotions, shaping our self-image and guiding our choices. But let's be clear: self-worth isn't about arrogance or superiority over others. It's about recognizing our worthiness without diminishing the worth of others.
Psychologists continue to debate the precise impact of self-worth on our lives and the most effective strategies for bolstering it. However, the consensus is clear: high self-worth is associated with numerous benefits for mental health, success, and overall happiness.
In CRG's Self-Worth Inventory, we delve into five critical areas of life to help individuals assess their self-worth levels. By pinpointing areas of strength and areas for improvement, individuals can chart a course toward greater self-worth and fulfillment.
Renowned psychologist Dr. Nathaniel Branden describes self-worth as comprising two essential components: self-efficacy and self-respect. Self-efficacy reflects our confidence in our ability to navigate life's challenges, make decisions, and pursue our goals. Self-respect, on the other hand, is about recognizing our inherent right to happiness and fulfillment, and believing that we deserve love, respect, and success.
The impact of self-worth extends far beyond our personal perceptions. It influences our career choices, decision-making processes, and resilience in the face of adversity. Individuals with high self-worth are more likely to pursue nontraditional career paths, take calculated risks, and embrace new opportunities, all traits highly prized in today's dynamic world.
Research underscores the pivotal role of self-worth in various aspects of life, from parenting to academic achievement. High self-worth in parents fosters a nurturing environment conducive to the development of self-worth in their children. Schools that prioritize self-worth see not only academic success but also greater psychological well-being among students.
Moreover, the benefits of high self-worth ripple through adulthood, with individuals exhibiting lower rates of destructive behaviors such as substance abuse and violence. Conversely, low self-worth can act as a barrier to social, educational, and physical well-being, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage.
To embark on a journey toward greater self-worth, start by recognizing your unique strengths, talents, and values. CRG offers a suite of assessments, including the personal style indicator, stress indicator and health planner, and values preference indicator, to help individuals gain deeper insights into themselves and their potential.
In my latest book and e-course, The Quest For Purpose, I provide a roadmap for building confidence and finding purpose. Coupled with CRG's Self-Worth Inventory, these resources offer invaluable tools for cultivating a strong sense of self-worth and embracing a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.
Remember, your self-worth isn't determined by external validation or societal norms—it's an intrinsic quality that you possess and nurture from within. By investing in your self-worth, you lay the groundwork for a life rich in happiness, success, and meaningful connections.
Until next time, Keep Living On Purpose!
Dr. Ken Keis, Expert Leadership
Ken Keis, Ph.D., is a leading global authority on behavioral (personality) assessment strategies and an expert in leadership, purpose, and wellness. He is the President and CEO of Consulting Resource Group International, Inc. (CRG) which has served thousands of organizations worldwide. With over 4 million words of content authored, including 4 books and a dozen assessments, Dr. Keis is also a respected author, speaker, coach, mentor and media guest His latest books include: Why Aren't You More Like Me?, Deliberate Leadership, and The Quest For Purpose. An engaging public speaker, Dr. Keis has conducted over 3,000 presentations and 10,000 hours of coaching and consulting.
