Devaluing ourselves is a common psychological phenomenon that often goes unnoticed. This is due to underestimating oneself for the simplest reasons. While it may seem like a trivial issue, devaluing ourselves can have a profound impact on our self-esteem, mental health, and overall well-being. Self-devaluation usually has roots in early experiences, often starting in childhood. Negative feedback, criticism, or neglect during your formative years can lay the foundation for a distorted self-image. These early impressions can create the impression that we are not good enough, smart enough, or capable enough to live up to the expectations of others or even ourselves. One of the driving forces behind self-deprecation is perfectionism. Many of us hold ourselves to incredibly high standards, believing that anything less than perfection equates to failure. This kind of thinking can lead to constant feelings of inadequacy because perfection is an unattainable goal. As a result, we devalue our efforts and achievements, no matter how significant they may be. In the age of social media, comparing ourselves to others has become a daily ritual. We often judge our worth based on how we judge our peers, co-workers, or even strangers online. When we perceive others as more successful, attractive, or happy, we begin to devalue ourselves in comparison. This toxic habit can perpetuate feelings of unworthiness and fuel a cycle of self-deprecation. How we talk to ourselves matters more than we think. Negative self-talk, the inner critic, constantly whispers into our heads, increasing our self-deprecation. We find ourselves using phrases like “I’m not good enough,” “I always screw things up,” or “I don’t deserve to be happy.” These thoughts become a self-fulfilling prophecy that shapes the way we think about ourselves and our abilities. Liberation from Self-Deprecation Recognizing and combating self-deprecation is the first step to liberation from its grip. Here are some strategies to help you on your journey:1. Self-Awareness: Pay attention to your internal dialogue and situations that trigger self-devaluation. Awareness is the key to change.2. Challenge Negative Thoughts: When you catch yourself devaluing yourself, challenge those thoughts. Ask yourself about evidence that supports or contradicts these beliefs.3. Set realistic standards: Replace perfectionism with realistic expectations. Accept the fact that making mistakes is a natural part of being human.4. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would treat a friend. Remember that self-esteem is not dependent on external achievements. Devaluing yourself is a subtle but powerful force that can undermine our self-esteem and overall happiness. By understanding its origins and implementing strategies to combat it, we can learn to value ourselves for who we truly are, value our accomplishments, and lead more fulfilling lives. It's a journey to self-acceptance and self-love that's worth it. Psychological counselingPopov Sergey - https://www.b17.ru/popov_sergeySign up for a consultation WhatsApp Telegram