1 hard truth, 2 practical tips, and 3 power moves for April.

This month I’m talking about self-esteem and self-worth. Is there a difference? You bet there is, and if I'd figured this out years ago, I might have saved myself a heartache or two. So read on and see if I can spare you some trouble.

1 Hard Truth - We often use self-esteem and self-worth interchangeably, but they aren’t the same thing.

Self-esteem is how much we like or value ourselves based on our achievements, appearance, status, or skills. It tends to rise and fall depending on how we’re doing or how others perceive us.
Self-worth, on the other hand, is deeper. It’s the unshakable belief that you are inherently valuable, just because you exist. It doesn’t depend on performance. It’s not earned—it’s owned.

When our self-worth is solid, we can weather failures, criticism, or uncertainty without crumbling. Self-esteem may fluctuate, but self-worth is the anchor. Here are a couple of examples -

➡️ Example 1: You bomb a presentation at work. Your self-esteem might take a hit (“I’m not good at public speaking”), but if your self-worth is intact, you can say, “That didn’t go well, but I’m still capable, valuable, and growing.”

➡️ Example 2: You get promoted. Your self-esteem gets a boost—but without self-worth, you might still feel like a fraud or worry you’re not truly deserving.

2 Practical Tips - here are a couple of questions you can ask yourself to help improve your understanding of the difference between self-esteem and self-worth.

1. Where do I notice my self-esteem rising or falling throughout the day?
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2. What’s one thing I can do to affirm my self-worth that has nothing to do with achievement?

3 Power Moves

🔹 1. Separate “doing” from “being.”

Practice: At the end of the day, list three things about yourself that have nothing to do with accomplishments or roles (e.g., “I’m compassionate,” “I care deeply about others,” “I’m a good listener”).
Why: This helps you anchor your identity in who you are, not just what you do.

🔹 2. Notice the inner critic—and talk back.

Practice: When you hear that voice say, “You’re not good enough” or “You should’ve done more”, respond with something like, “Even if I made a mistake, I’m still worthy of respect and love.”
​ Why: This rewires the connection between failure and worth. Over time, it teaches your brain that performance doesn’t determine value.

🔹 3. Practice unconditional self-talk.

Practice: Think of how you'd comfort a child or a friend going through something tough. Now say those same things to yourself—even (and especially) when you feel like you “don’t deserve” it.
Why: It builds internal safety and reminds you: your worth isn’t up for debate.

Happy Easter! It's the month of new beginnings.

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