As a field expert in psychology with a focus on self-concept and self-perception, I often discuss the nuances between self-esteem and self-worth. These two terms are frequently used interchangeably, but they represent distinct yet related concepts within the realm of personal development and mental health.

Self-esteem refers to the evaluative component of the self-concept, which encompasses a person's overall subjective sense of self-evaluation and self-judgment. It is dynamic and can fluctuate based on external feedback and internal thoughts. Self-esteem is often linked to one's achievements, social status, and physical appearance, among other factors. It is the reflection of how much a person values themselves based on their own standards and societal expectations. When someone has high self-esteem, they generally feel competent, confident, and worthy of happiness and respect.

On the other hand, self-worth is a more foundational and intrinsic concept. It is the inherent value and dignity that one ascribes to oneself, regardless of external circumstances or achievements. Self-worth is about recognizing one's intrinsic value as a human being, independent of any role, status, or accomplishment. It is the understanding that every person has value simply by virtue of their existence. It is a more stable and enduring aspect of self-concept, less susceptible to the vicissitudes of life.

The distinction between the two is crucial because while self-esteem can be influenced by external validation and may lead to a conditional sense of self-worth (i.e., feeling worthy only when one meets certain criteria or achieves specific goals), self-worth is unconditional. It does not require external validation or accomplishment to be maintained. It is the bedrock of one's identity, providing a sense of security and resilience in the face of life's challenges.

The pursuit of self-esteem can sometimes be misguided because it can lead to a focus on external achievements and the approval of others, which can be fleeting and unreliable. In contrast, cultivating self-worth involves a deeper, more internal process of self-acceptance and self-compassion. It is about developing a sense of purpose and meaning that is not dependent on external achievements or the opinions of others.

In the words of the referenced material, "Self-esteem is what we think and feel and believe about ourselves." This statement highlights the subjective and evaluative nature of self-esteem. It is about how we perceive ourselves based on our internal dialogue and external feedback. In contrast, "Self-worth is recognizing --I am greater than all of those things--." This speaks to the inherent and unconditional nature of self-worth, which is not defined by external factors.

It is also important to note that while "having self-esteem means --feeling good about ourselves," this feeling is not always sustainable, as it can be dependent on external circumstances. However, self-worth provides a more consistent and enduring sense of value and dignity, regardless of how one feels at any given moment.

In conclusion, self-esteem and self-worth, though related, serve different purposes in our psychological makeup. Self-esteem is more about the evaluative judgments we make about ourselves, which can be influenced by external factors, while self-worth is the recognition of our inherent value as individuals, which is not dependent on external validation or achievements. Understanding this distinction can be empowering, as it encourages a shift from seeking external validation to cultivating a deep sense of self-worth and self-acceptance.

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Self-esteem is what we think and feel and believe about ourselves. Self-worth is recognizing --I am greater than all of those things--. ... That's why I believe the pursuit of self-esteem is a myth. But having self-esteem means --feeling good about ourselves.--Mar 9, 2013read more >>