Chapter 3: Love and the Self: Identity, Self-Worth, and Healing
Abstract: Love and the Self involve understanding your inherent worth (not earned), building identity through values and actions, and healing by shifting from external validation to internal self-compassion, achieved through awareness, self-care, boundary-setting, forgiving past mistakes, and celebrating successes, ultimately transforming negative self-beliefs into self-acceptance . Identity & Self-Worth Identity: Who you are, built from your values, beliefs, roles, and personality. Self-Worth : Your intrinsic value as a human, separate from achievements; it's about being worthy just as you are. Self-Esteem : How you feel about yourself, often linked to competence and control, but distinct from core worth. Cultivating Self-Love & Healing Develop Awareness: Journal, meditate, and observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment to understand triggers and negative patterns. Challenge Unworthiness: ...