It has taken me years to acknowledge and celebrate myself for all that I’ve accomplished. In the past there were times when I didn’t believe in my worth or give myself credit for what I’d accomplished.

Now I know better. What I've achieved is because of hard work, perseverance and intelligence. My struggles turned into strength and I used that power to keep going when I felt like I couldn’t go on.

Don't Call Me lucky. Call me a Bad Ass.  ~Shonda Rhymes

I agree with Shonda - as women we have to own our greatness. The struggle is real - most women face more challenges than men do. What do we do? We keep going.

Representation in the media, childhood experiences, social media, relationships and other external factors can diminish our self-worth. Practicing self-care and celebrating your achievements, no matter how small, helps build self worth. 

How to cultivate your self-worth

Practice self-acceptance 

Accept yourself for who you are: the good, the bad and the ugly. Know it’s okay to struggle with vulnerability. You don’t ever have to tell anyone your whole drama filled tale on how you survived and got where you are. OR feel free to embrace your story and tell everyone! You may inspire someone else to embrace their greatness and step into the future.

Avoid comparison

Comparing yourself to others takes away from your ability to focus on your own thoughts and feelings. A lot of content on social media can trigger the feeling of “I’m not good enough.” Consume with caution. Self-worth comes from how you perceive yourself. You may think other people are judging you, but remember that most of the time they’re too busy with their own challenges to be able to focus on you.

When you’re 20 you care what everyone thinks, when you’re 40 you stop caring what everyone thinks, when you’re 60 you realize no one was ever thinking about you in the first place. ~Unknown

Forgive Yourself and Others

Forgive yourself for the mistakes you made over the years. If you learned from your mistakes that is a huge stepping stone to owning your worth. Holding on to bitterness over a perceived slight only hurts you. Forgive those who hurt you and definitely don’t wait around for an apology. It may never come.

Take Responsibility

We all know that person who doesn’t take responsibility for their actions or words. Don't be that person. Children and teenagers get a pass as they’re learning. Adults do not. When you make a mistake, take ownership, it feels good. When you take accountability, you can look back on your journey and feel good about yourself. You may not be perfect, but you’re willing to step up and admit when you’re wrong.

Movement

Daily movement can help you feel strong and powerful, and improve your outlook. For me lifting weights and seeing my body get physically stronger makes me feel mentally and emotionally strong. Sticking to exercise goals can also give you a sense of achievement.

Trust your Intuition

Trust yourself to make good decisions for yourself. When your intuition is telling you something, stop and listen. Intuitively you always know what’s best for you. Never rationalize. If you get the feeling this seems too good to be true. You’re right. 

Surround Yourself with What Make You Feel Good

Surround yourself with people who uplift you and who make you feel good. Energy vampires and naysayers aren’t allowed. Choose what uplifts you and makes you feel good from books to podcasts to movies and TV shows.

Let this be the day you step into your power and own your worth.Take all the credit. You deserve it!