The Importance of Valuing Ourselves
The theme of value comes up often in my work—and it was the reason behind our recent workshop on this very topic.
Why is value important?
Value matters deeply for all of us, no matter the context of our work. Whether you're a freelancer, creative entrepreneur, or working in a corporate setting, it's vital not only to recognise your own value but also to receive it. We need to allow ourselves to be valued—not just by others, but by ourselves first.
We can’t truly feel valued unless we believe it from within. Positive feedback from others can help, yes—but if we don’t believe in our own worth, that feedback won’t stick. It doesn’t land. It’s like pouring water into a cup with a hole in the bottom.
What stops us from acknowledging our value?
Cultural messaging & early programming
Many of us internalised messages early on that we shouldn’t get “too big for our boots” or should “play small” to get ahead. Phrases like “Who does she think she is?” or “She’s full of herself” can lodge deep in our subconscious, leaving us hesitant to fully show up.
But here's the truth: Being full of yourself—in your strengths, talents, and essence—is exactly how you show up fully in the world. In my work, I often support clients in learning that it’s okay to feel good about themselves. It’s okay to take compliments. It’s okay to receive.
Fear
Many people fear being rejected or criticised. Some of us believe that valuing ourselves will provoke negativity or judgment. So we stay quiet. We hide. We play small instead of celebrating our worth.
Trust
We may not yet trust that what we offer is “good enough.” Some of us learned it's safer to downplay our gifts or minimise what we do. There can be a fear that if we grow, we’ll lose clients, friends, or safety. But the truth is: when we grow, we naturally gravitate toward environments, clients, and communities that value us. And we must learn to trust that our growth is a good thing—for us and for those we serve.
For entrepreneurs especially...
Entrepreneurs are deeply aware of the importance of valuing what we create. We see opportunities, bring ideas to life, and it’s essential that we learn to honour and price our offerings in a way that reflects their true worth.
Where do we begin?
🌀 Start noticing when and where you don’t feel valued. Does it show up as undercharging? Overgiving? Not positioning yourself where you need to be? Take time to Journal and this will help in noticing.
🌀 Get clear on what you offer. What problem do you help solve? Your value is directly linked to the difference you make—whether you're a coach, designer, artist, or consultant. Understanding this helps you speak about your work with confidence.
🌀 Clarify your strengths and expertise. You don’t need to overpromise—just be clear and grounded. Clients can feel when you believe in what you do.
🌀 Look for the other ways you receive value. Value isn’t always monetary. It may come in the form of referrals, kind words, return clients, podcast invitations, or collaborations. Stay open to all of it.
🌀 Watch out for negativity bias. Our brains are wired to notice what’s not working. So consciously remind yourself of what is.
Are you ready to receive your value?
Sometimes, in therapy, I notice that even when I reflect positive feedback to clients, they struggle to receive it. This becomes the work—and when they begin to allow it in, it makes a profound impact on their self-worth. From there, the outer world begins to reflect this inner change.
💬 If you struggle to feel valued, or to fully show up in your work and life, know this: you're not alone. Getting support from a life coach or psychotherapist can help unravel these patterns and help you step into your worth with confidence.
Now enrolling: September Mastermind Groups
✨ Applications are now open for the September Mastermind Groups.
If you’d like to explore this work in a supported, inspiring group setting, get in touch. I’d love to hear from you and help you find what’s most aligned for where you are right now.
