25 Self-Worth and Self-Esteem Quotes

Do you sometimes question your worth? Does your inner voice whisper in your ear that you’re not good enough? Are you dealing with something difficult that’s making you doubt yourself?

Well, what if we told you there are powerful words waiting to be heard, ready to remind you of your incredible worth?

We’ve compiled a collection of self-worth and self-esteem quotes that are more than just words–they’re affirmations to hold onto when life gets tough. These words by famous people will remind you to believe in yourself and love yourself as you are, because you are enough.

“Quotes can be powerful because they encapsulate affirming and empowering messages in concise and relatable ways,” says Aja Chavez, LMFT, executive director of adolescent services at AMFM Healthcare.

25 Self-Worth and Self-Esteem Quotes

Here are some quotes that will help remind your of your self-worth:

Why Self-Esteem and Self-Worth Are Important

Self-worth and self-esteem are two closely related ideas that are both essential for our overall well-being. They are foundational to our mental and emotional health, influencing how we perceive ourselves, interact with others, and navigate life’s challenges, says Chavez.

These are some of the reasons why it’s important to have a healthy sense of self-worth and self-esteem, according to the expert:

• Healthier relationships: When we value ourselves, we’re better at setting boundaries and demanding respect in our relationships. This allows for more balanced, fulfilling, and mutually respectful relationships, says Chavez.
• Less dependency: High self-esteem reduces the tendency to seek attention and validation from others, leading to more genuine and equitable relationships.
• Greater resilience: Resilience is our ability to bounce back from tough situations. Chavez explains that when we believe in ourselves, we become more resilient and better equipped to handle setbacks and adversity, because we possess the inner strength we need to persevere through difficulties.
• Increased motivation: Believing in our own worth also motivates us to pursue goals and strive for self-improvement, encouraging us to take risks, explore new opportunities, and reach our potential, says Chavez.
• Better decision-making: Believe it or not, having a healthy sense of self-worth and self-esteem also contributes to better decision-making abilities. We’re able to trust our instincts and judgments, leading to more confident and assertive choices, Chavez says. We’re also less likely to regret our decisions.
• Greater adaptability: A strong sense of self-worth allows us to be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances, maintaining our sense of identity and purpose despite external changes.
• More positivity: Self-esteem also fosters a more positive outlook on life, encouraging us to focus on our strengths and capabilities rather than our shortcomings.
• Increased self-compassion: Self-worth promotes self-compassion, allowing us to treat ourselves with kindness and understanding, especially during tough times.
• Improved mental health: High self-worth and self-esteem contribute to better mental health, says Chavez. Research shows us that they’re linked to lower levels of depression, stress, and anxiety, and greater happiness and well-being.
• Better body image: Self-worth and self-esteem are also key ingredients to maintaining a healthier body image that isn’t contingent on our appearance.

How Self-Esteem and Self-Worth Quotes Work

You’re probably wondering how quotes can boost our self-esteem and self-worth. 

Here’s how they work:

• Act as positive affirmations: These quotes often act as positive affirmations. By repeating or simply reading statements about self-love, self-acceptance, and inner strength, they plant the seeds of more positive beliefs.
• Challenge negative self-talk: These quotes can challenge and change negative thought patterns by providing new, positive perspectives that can help reframe how we see ourselves, says Chavez.
• Validate our feelings: Sometimes, hearing a positive message from an outside source can be especially validating. When we read quotes that resonate with our experiences, it validates our feelings and assures us that we are not alone on the struggle bus.
• Provide inspiration: Chavez notes that uplifting quotes inspire us to take action and make positive changes in our lives. They remind us what we’re capable of and give us the push we need to get going.
• Motivate us: Quotes from successful or admired figures can be motivating. They remind us that even accomplished people have doubts and struggles, but they persevered. This can motivate us to believe in ourselves and keep pushing forward.
• Improve mood: Engaging with positive messages can lift our spirits and improve our mood—this emotional boost can have a lasting impact on our self-esteem over time, says Chavez.
• Shift focus: These quotes can take our attention away from negative thoughts and refocus it on empowering ideas. This mental shift can help us recalibrate our goals and energies.

How to Use Self-Esteem and Self-Worth Quotes

Here are some tips that can help you effectively use self-worth quotes to boost your self-esteem and well-being:

• Find the right quotes: Choose quotes that resonate with your current situation. Are you facing self-doubt, in need of a motivational push, or seeking validation? Find quotes that address those specific needs.
• Display them as reminders: You can write or print out the quotes you like and stick them around your home and workspace, to serve as daily reminders of your worth. If you prefer, you could also set reminders on your phone, so these positive messages pop up on your screen, offering a quick burst of encouragement during the day.
• Read and reflect: Don’t just skim the quotes when you see them. Take the time to read them slowly, understand their meaning, and reflect on how they apply to your life.
• Internalize the messages: Rephrase the quotes in your own words. How would you express the message to yourself?
• Visualize success: Pair each quote with a mental image of yourself accomplishing what it describes. Visualize achieving that goal. What does it look, feel, and sound like?
• Recite them as mantras: If you like, you can repeat your chosen quote throughout the day like a mantra, especially when you’re in challenging situations.
• Use them as a journal prompt: You can also use the quotes as journal prompts. Write about the experiences and emotions they evoke.

When Quotes Aren’t Enough

Quotes are a fantastic starting point, but they can’t single-handedly build lasting self-esteem. Here’s what you can do when quotes aren’t enough:

• Practice self-compassion: Quotes can nudge you in the right direction, but true self-worth comes from being compassionate to yourself. Chavez says it’s important to treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a friend. Self-compassion exercises can help you learn how to be kinder to yourself.
• Develop your strengths: What are you good at? Actively engage in activities that utilize your strengths. This sense of mastery fosters self-belief.
• Celebrate your wins: Keep a “win” jar or journal where you record your accomplishments, big or small. “Celebrate your progress and accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem,” says Chavez.
• Help others: Helping others is a powerful way to boost your own self-esteem. Volunteer your time, support a friend, or simply offer a helping hand. Contributing positively fosters self-worth.
• Surround yourself with positive people: Chavez recommends cultivating relationships with people who uplift and support you and avoiding those who consistently undermine or devalue you. The company you keep matters.
• Focus on progress, not perfection: Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Everyone has them. Focus on learning from challenges and getting back on track.
• Practice self-care: Chavez says to prioritize self-care activities that promote your physical, emotional, and mental well-being, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and relaxation. 
• Seek therapy: If you find it challenging to improve your self-worth and self-esteem on your own, Chavez says it may be helpful to see a therapist. “Therapy can provide personalized strategies and support to help you build a healthier self-view.”
• Be patient: Building self-esteem takes time and consistent effort. Be patient with yourself and remember to celebrate your progress along the way.

Takeaways

While these quotes offer a powerful dose of inspiration, it’s important to remember that self-worth and self-esteem need to come from within. Use these words as a springboard to delve deeper. Challenge negative thoughts, celebrate your wins, and cultivate self-compassion.  It’s not just about how the world sees you, but about how you see and value yourself. Remember, you are worthy of love and respect, no matter what!