How to Value Yourself: Strategies for Cherishing Who You Are

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What does it truly mean to value yourself?

It’s a question that many of us wrestle with, especially in a world that constantly tells us we’re not enough. In this post, I want to unpack what it means for how to value yourself, why it matters, and how you can begin walking in your God-given worth.

What Does “Value” Mean?

According to the Oxford Dictionary, value is “the regard that something is held to deserve; the importance, worth, or usefulness of something.”

Take a moment to think about that. How do you view yourself in light of this definition?

Do you believe you’re deserving of good things? Do you see yourself as important, worthy, and useful?

If your honest answer is no, know this: you’re not alone. I spent most of my life not truly valuing myself either. But hope is never lost. Just because you haven’t seen your value doesn’t mean it’s not there. And the good news? You can begin to see it—right now.

Why Is It Important to Value Yourself?

Valuing yourself means you believe you are worthy of love, respect, success, and well-being—not because of what you’ve done, but because of who you are and Whose you are.

Here’s what happens when you begin to value yourself:

• You stop settling for less than God’s best.
• You recognize the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships.
• You begin to say no to things (and people) that drain your peace.
• You build and protect boundaries that preserve your mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
• You are no longer afraid to remove toxic influences from your life.
• You start attracting and maintaining healthy, life-giving relationships.

Valuing yourself means standing in agreement with what God says about you. It’s not arrogance—it’s alignment.

“Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”
— Luke 12:6-7 (NKJV)

When you accept your value, you accept the truth that God didn’t make a mistake when He made you. You embrace your strengths, your gifts, and even your quirks. You stop shrinking to fit into molds you were never made for.

And here’s the beautiful part: when you see your value clearly, you’re able to better recognize and honor the value in others, too.

Valuing Yourself Doesn’t Mean Devaluing Others

It’s not about thinking more of yourself than others—it’s about not thinking less of yourself than God does.

When you value yourself:

• You don’t need constant validation from others.
• You no longer chase approval.
• Your self-worth becomes rooted in truth—not opinions.
• You treat yourself with dignity and expect others to do the same.

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How to Value Yourself

Ready to walk in your worth? Here are some intentional ways to start valuing yourself:

1. Learn Who You Are—Through God’s Eyes

Start by getting grounded in the truth of God’s Word. What He says about you matters more than what the world says. Dive into Scripture and discover the identity He’s already given you.

Then, explore your God-given gifts, strengths, personality traits, and passions. Get to know the unique way God designed you—and celebrate it.

2. Acknowledge Your Weaknesses Without Shame

You don’t have to be good at everything. Weakness doesn’t make you less—it just means you’re human. And God often shows His strength most in our weak areas.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”
— 2 Corinthians 12:9

3. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Comparison is a thief. You were never meant to look, act, or be like anyone else. Embrace your unique design—there’s greatness in it.

4. Change Your Inner Dialogue

Speak to yourself with kindness. Replace negative self-talk with positive, truth-filled affirmations. When harmful thoughts arise, take them captive and replace them with God’s truth (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Examples:

• I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
• I am loved and chosen by God.
• I am capable of making wise, healthy decisions.

5. Set and Protect Healthy Boundaries

Boundaries aren’t selfish—they’re wise. They teach others how to treat you and preserve your peace. Toxic relationships may need to be redefined or even ended. Some people can only walk with you for a season—and that’s okay.

6. Surround Yourself with Life-Giving People

Build a support system of emotionally and spiritually healthy people—friends, mentors, or even a therapist. Choose people who uplift you, speak truth in love, and walk with integrity.

7. Start Trusting Yourself Again

If you’ve ignored your instincts or second-guessed your judgment, now’s the time to rebuild that trust. You are capable. You can make good decisions. Start small if needed, and celebrate every step forward.

8. Celebrate Your Wins—Big or Small

Make a list of your accomplishments—yes, even the “little” ones. When you see them written out, you begin to realize just how far you’ve come.

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Here’s a personal story:
One time I wrote a cover letter and résumé for a job that didn’t even exist. I pitched a brand-new position and explained why I was the perfect person to fill it. I never heard back—but I valued myself enough to advocate for my own worth. That’s growth.

Valuing Yourself Means…

• Valuing your mind and thoughts
• Honoring your gifts and talents
• Understanding your limitations without shame
• Protecting your time and space
• Prioritizing rest
• And most importantly, spending intentional time with God, the One who created you.

Final Encouragement

You are WORTH it.

You are valuable.
You are needed.
And there is something inside of you that this world desperately needs.

When you begin to value yourself, not only do you change your life—but you begin to change the lives of those around you.So take the first step. Walk in your worth. Say it out loud today:
“I value me.”