Building Self-Respect: Finding Worth Through Telehealth Support

Self-respect development through evidence-based telehealth therapy helps individuals build genuine self-worth, establish healthy boundaries, and overcome past trauma by working with licensed therapists who provide personalized strategies for creating a stronger, more confident self-image.

Do you sometimes feel like you're your own harshest critic? Building genuine self-respect isn't just about positive thinking—it's about developing a deeper understanding of your inherent worth, and with professional therapeutic guidance, you can learn practical strategies to transform how you value yourself.

How To Respect Yourself: Finding Self-Worth Through Telehealth Support

According to Merriam-Webster, self-respect is “proper respect for oneself as a human being and regard for one’s standing or position.” Developing respect for yourself is a personal journey influenced by several factors, including past relationships, upbringing, temperament, and personality. If you struggle with self-respect or finding time for self-care, exploring evidence-based techniques for building self-worth can be transformative.

Understanding Self-Respect vs. Self-Centeredness

The American Psychological Association defines self-respect as a feeling of self-worth and self-esteem that honors one’s values, character, and dignity. Having genuine self-respect leads to thoughts and behaviors that encourage autonomous actions rooted in independent thinking and perseverance.

It’s important to distinguish between healthy self-respect and being egotistical or self-centered. Some people mistakenly equate self-respect with narcissism, which involves excessive self-admiration and disregard for others’ feelings. However, authentic self-respect is not narcissistic.

A self-centered individual typically makes each situation about themselves. While they might show temporary concern for others, they’re primarily focused on personal benefit. In contrast, self-respect involves treating yourself with kindness and compassion, including establishing healthy boundaries for what you will and won’t accept from others.

Common Causes of Low Self-Respect

Several factors can contribute to a lack of self-respect:

Challenging Childhood Environments

Growing up in an unsafe or abusive household can profoundly affect how we perceive ourselves and relate to others. Children raised in homes where emotional abuse was present may internalize harmful messages that continue to undermine their self-worth throughout adulthood. With appropriate therapeutic support, however, individuals who have experienced such trauma can begin rebuilding their self-esteem.

Past Mistakes and Regrets

While some people learn and grow from mistakes, others become trapped in cycles of self-criticism and shame. These individuals may define themselves by past errors, believing they don’t deserve respect or happiness. Remember that past mistakes inform but don’t determine your worth.

Unhealthy Social Comparisons

Constantly measuring yourself against others’ accomplishments can erode self-respect. This habit can lead to feeling perpetually inadequate and respecting others more than yourself. Take time to acknowledge your own achievements and the obstacles you’ve overcome, giving yourself credit for these victories.

Strategies to Build Self-Respect

Developing self-respect may seem challenging initially, but with consistent practice, it becomes more natural. One crucial step is to stop basing your self-worth on external validation or others’ opinions. Looking to internal motivators, such as personal values and character, creates a more stable foundation for self-respect.

Consider reaching out to supportive friends who can encourage your growth during this process. While you don’t need to share your innermost thoughts with every acquaintance, having allies in your journey can provide valuable perspective and accountability.

The Golden Rules of Self-Compassion

Reflection is a powerful tool for addressing challenges with self-respect. Try creating an encouragement list of your positive characteristics, accomplishments, and things that energize you. Avoid including negative traits or criticisms. Consider these essential principles of self-respect:

Don’t Settle for Less Than You Deserve

Surround yourself with positive people, pursue meaningful goals, and approach challenges with a growth mindset. Avoid remaining in relationships, jobs, or situations that diminish your self-esteem.

Maintain Your Self-Worth Despite Others’ Opinions

Standing firm in the face of criticism or disagreement can be difficult but necessary. Don’t allow others’ negative remarks to define your self-perception or identity. You alone determine your standards and how you present yourself to the world.

Acknowledge Your Strengths

While recognizing areas for growth is important, don’t let temporary setbacks overshadow your positive qualities. If identifying these traits is difficult, journal about what makes you valuable to yourself and others. Review this list whenever you need a reminder of your worth.

Practice Self-Forgiveness

Everyone makes mistakes. When you regret an action, address it and move forward. Make amends if necessary, including with yourself. Even if others don’t accept your apology, knowing you’ve done your best allows you to move ahead with integrity.

Honor Your Values

Maintaining your authentic personality builds self-esteem. Resist pressure to conform to others’ expectations of who you “should be.” True friends respect your values and accept you as you are.

Prioritize Physical and Mental Wellness

Your physical and mental health significantly impact how you feel about yourself. Develop a self-care plan that includes nutritious eating, regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, and challenging negative thought patterns.

Inspirational Quotes on Self-Respect

These quotes can inspire your practice of self-respect:

• “If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.” – Jack Kornfield
• “Respect yourself enough to walk away from anything that no longer serves you, grows you, or makes you happy.” – Robert Tew
• “The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself.” – Michel de Montaigne
• “The only person that deserves a special place in your life is someone that never made you feel like you were an option in theirs.” – Shannon L. Alder
• “Loving ourselves works miracles in our lives.” – Louise L. Hay
• “Self-care is never a selfish act—it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer to others.” – Parker Palmer

Finding Professional Support Through Telehealth

For many, low self-respect stems from deep-rooted feelings that benefit from professional guidance. Working with a licensed clinical social worker through telehealth therapy can help address these underlying issues in a convenient, accessible way.

Research indicates that online therapy effectively helps people with self-esteem challenges related to mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. A study published in Psychiatric Research examined the benefits of online therapy for individuals experiencing depression symptoms and low self-esteem. Researchers found that a 12-week online therapy program increased participants’ self-esteem, empowerment, and overall quality of life.

ReachLink connects clients with licensed clinical social workers through secure video sessions, providing therapy that fits your schedule and eliminates geographical barriers. These professionals can help you identify patterns undermining your self-respect and develop personalized strategies for building healthier self-perception.

Takeaway

Self-respect significantly impacts mental well-being. Building a healthier relationship with yourself may require addressing negative thought patterns and past experiences. Whether you choose to confide in trusted friends or seek professional support through telehealth therapy, remember that you’re not alone on this journey. With the right tools and support, developing genuine self-respect is within reach.