We all want to create change in our lives—whether it’s building a business, improving our health, or deepening our relationships. But why is it that, despite our best efforts, we so often find ourselves stuck in the same patterns? The answer lies in something most people overlook: self-esteem.

Confidence vs. Self-Esteem: The Distinction That Changes Everything

Many people assume that confidence and self-esteem are the same. They’re not. Confidence is a skill—it’s built by taking action, learning, and proving to ourselves that we’re capable. Self-esteem, on the other hand, is deeper. It’s our internal sense of self-worth, the value we place on ourselves, and our belief that we deserve success, happiness, and fulfillment.

You might be confident in certain areas of life—maybe you’re a great public speaker or a skilled entrepreneur—but still struggle with self-esteem. And when self-esteem is low, it quietly sabotages every effort you make to create change.

The Real Reason You Struggle to Create Change

Think about the last time you set a goal. Maybe it was to lose weight, launch a business, or improve your relationships. At first, you were committed, motivated, and disciplined. But within a few weeks, life got in the way, and your progress stalled. Sound familiar?

Most people assume they just need more willpower, but the truth is that motivation and discipline are finite resources. If your self-worth isn’t aligned with the identity of the person you’re trying to become, you will always struggle to sustain change. Your subconscious mind will pull you back into familiar patterns—because deep down, it doesn’t believe you deserve the new reality you’re trying to create.

How Low Self-Esteem Manifests in Your Life

If you resonate with any of the following, self-worth might be the real issue holding you back:

• You doubt yourself, even when you’re skilled or experienced.
• You struggle to stay consistent with new habits and goals.
• You find it hard to ask for help or accept compliments.
• You people-please at your own expense.
• You fear success as much as you fear failure.

Shifting Your Identity: Two Simple Practices to Start Today

The good news? Self-worth can be reprogrammed. Here are two powerful yet simple tools to begin shifting your self-esteem today:

1. The Mirror Exercise

Look at yourself in the mirror three times a day and say, “I love you.” Repeat it 10 times while making full eye contact with yourself. This might feel awkward at first, but over time, it rewires your subconscious mind to see and accept your own worth.

2. The Self-Love Vibe Booster

Listen to a short self-love affirmation or subconscious reprogramming audio three to five times a day. Your brain learns through repetition, and by consistently feeding it messages of self-worth, you begin to shift your identity from the inside out.

Final Thoughts: Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends on It

Your self-worth dictates every aspect of your life—your career, relationships, finances, and health. If you don’t truly believe you deserve success, no amount of strategy or discipline will create lasting change. The foundation of a fearless, fulfilled life begins with how much you value yourself.

So, I invite you to take on this challenge: Spend the next 30 days practicing these tools, and see how your self-esteem—and your entire life—begin to transform.

If this message resonates with you, come join the conversation inside the Fearless Collective Facebook group. You are worthy. You are valuable. And you deserve a life that reflects that.

Crystal Stanton is a certified coach, human design enthusiast, and podcast host dedicated to helping women step into their power and create success from a place of alignment. Connect with her on socials to learn more.