How do I stop feeling like I'm not worthy of good things?
Identity & Self-Worth
Unworthiness feelings often stem from childhood experiences and trauma; practice self-compassion and challenge beliefs about deserving happiness.
Feeling unworthy of good things is a deeply painful belief that often stems from early experiences that taught you that you don't deserve love, happiness, or positive experiences. This might have developed in childhood if you experienced neglect, abuse, criticism, or inconsistent caregiving that made you conclude that there was something fundamentally wrong or unlovable about you. Psychological trauma can create feelings of unworthiness by making you feel damaged, dirty, or broken in ways that seem irreparable. Sometimes these beliefs come from religious or cultural messages about sin, punishment, or the need to earn worthiness through suffering or perfect behavior. You might have internalized the idea that good things only come to people who are perfect, and since you're aware of your flaws and mistakes, you don't qualify for happiness or success. Major depressive disorder can intensify feelings of unworthiness by creating a negative filter through which you view yourself and your life. You might dismiss positive experiences as flukes or focus intensely on any evidence that you don't deserve good treatment. The belief in your own unworthiness often becomes self-fulfilling because it can cause you to sabotage good Interpersonal relationship, turn down opportunities, or settle for less than you deserve because better things feel too good to be true. You might also attract people who treat you poorly because that treatment feels familiar and confirms your beliefs about what you deserve. It's important to recognize that worthiness isn't something you earn through perfect behavior or achievements - it's inherent to being human. Every person deserves basic respect, kindness, and the opportunity for happiness simply by virtue of existing. Your past mistakes, current struggles, or perceived flaws don't disqualify you from good experiences. emotional healing feelings of unworthiness often requires professional support to explore their origins and develop self-compassion. Start by treating yourself with the same kindness you would show a friend, and practice challenging the critical voice that tells you you don't deserve good things. Notice when you're sabotaging positive experiences and gently redirect yourself toward acceptance and grateful feelings.