Excellent topic! I think our sense of worth is often shaped by how others treated us growing up. My Mom in particular was a hard driver, she was reluctant to give praise and held the bar very high. One day when I was working as a teacher, it occurred to me that I give my students encouragement and praise, but I give myself criticism and blame. Yet, I would have always said that I believe each person has value and that everyone is worthy of love and encouragement. It was a real eye opener! I still find myself basing my worth on what I have accomplished, but being aware of the problem has really helped me to shift to a much healthier perspective. We are valuable! We do make a unique contribution to the world as individuals! God has an intense love for each of us! What a wonderful realization to come to!