Self-regard

Self-regard refers to the degree of respect, value, and esteem one holds for oneself. It encompasses a sense of personal worth, the belief in one's abilities and qualities, and the understanding of one's inherent value as a human being. Strong self-regard often manifests as confidence, self-acceptance, and a healthy boundary-setting ability. Conversely, low self-regard can lead to self-doubt, insecurity, a need for external validation, and difficulty in asserting one's needs and desires. It's a core component of mental well-being and influences one's interactions with others and their overall approach to life. High self-regard contributes to resilience in the face of adversity, the ability to learn from mistakes, and the pursuit of personal goals. It's not the same as narcissism; self-regard is about appreciating one's genuine self, while narcissism involves an inflated sense of self-importance.

Self-regard meaning with examples

• Despite facing numerous professional setbacks, her strong self-regard allowed her to persevere, knowing her value wasn't solely tied to her accomplishments. She consistently prioritized her well-being and refused to let external criticism erode her inner confidence. This unwavering belief in herself helped her to overcome challenges and maintain a positive outlook, demonstrating the power of self-regard.
• His low self-regard was evident in his constant need for approval from others, making him vulnerable to manipulation. He often downplayed his own achievements and struggled to accept compliments, exhibiting a deep-seated lack of confidence. His self-deprecating humor masked a profound insecurity stemming from a lifetime of self-doubt, highlighting the impact of weak self-regard.
• Therapy helped her build her self-regard, enabling her to set healthy boundaries in relationships and to recognize her own strengths. By challenging negative self-talk and practicing self-compassion, she learned to value her own needs and to stand up for herself. Her journey showed the potential of self-regard to improve mental health and self-esteem.
• Building healthy self-regard is an essential aspect of developing emotional intelligence and navigating the complexities of life. Learning to accept your imperfections and celebrate your strengths is crucial for a fulfilling existence. This ability to see yourself accurately and appreciate your intrinsic worth fuels personal growth and stronger relationships.
• The company's toxic work environment, with its constant criticism and pressure, gradually eroded the employees' self-regard, leading to burnout and decreased productivity. Without supportive feedback, employees felt less valued and struggled with self-doubt, creating a climate of insecurity, showing the importance of a supportive and appreciative environment for a healthy self-regard.