Parents often ask how they can raise kind children who care about others and are mindful of their feelings. Teaching empathy and compassion is a crucial aspect of parenting, and it begins with understanding the importance of these traits in society. Research suggests that children who exhibit empathy and compassion tend to be happier and more resilient, and they contribute to a more positive and supportive society. So, how can parents foster these essential qualities in their children?

First and foremost, parents are role models for their children. Demonstrating empathy and compassion in your daily interactions is a powerful way to teach these values to your kids. When you show genuine concern for others and consider their feelings, your children will notice and emulate your behavior. Create a safe and nurturing home environment where family members can openly express their emotions and feel understood and supported. This foundation will help your children develop empathy towards others.

In addition to leading by example, it’s important to have open conversations about empathy and compassion. Discuss scenarios from books, movies, or real life where someone is experiencing strong emotions. Ask your children how they think the person feels and why. By encouraging this type of dialogue, you’re helping your children recognize and understand emotions, which is a fundamental aspect of empathy.

Storytelling is another effective tool to foster empathy. Sharing stories from your childhood or personal experiences where you’ve shown kindness can inspire your children to do the same. Reading books together that feature compassionate characters can also spark conversations about empathy and reinforce the importance of kindness.

It is also important to teach children to take action when they witness someone in distress. Encouraging them to help a lonely peer at school, or involving them in volunteering and charitable acts will help them see the impact of their actions on others. This will not only make them feel good about themselves but will also reinforce the value of empathy and compassion in their lives.

Empathy and compassion are like muscles that need to be exercised and strengthened over time. Creating opportunities for your children to interact with others from diverse backgrounds and encouraging them to consider different perspectives will challenge their empathy skills. Through these experiences, they will learn to recognize and respect the feelings of others, even if they don’t share the same viewpoint.

In a world that often feels divisive and filled with negativity, raising kind children is more important than ever. By teaching empathy and compassion, we can empower our children to make a positive impact on those around them and contribute to a more caring and supportive society. Let’s face it, we could all use a little more kindness in our lives!

So, start small and incorporate these teachings into your daily lives. Whether it’s holding the door open for someone or offering a listening ear to a friend in need, every act of kindness counts. And remember, by fostering empathy and compassion in your children, you are not only raising kind kids but also helping to create a better world for future generations.

As a parent, you play a crucial role in your child’s education. Helping your child with their homework can be a great way to reinforce what they are learning at school and show your support for their academic success. However, providing this support can sometimes be challenging. Here are some strategies to effectively support your child’s learning at home:

First and foremost, create a conducive environment for learning. Establish a quiet, well-lit, and distraction-free space for your child to do their homework. This space should be consistent, allowing your child to develop a routine and focus better. It is important to have all the necessary supplies, such as paper, pencils, and erasers, readily available to avoid unnecessary interruptions.

Communicate regularly with your child’s teacher. Stay updated on your child’s progress, upcoming assignments, and long-term projects. Teachers can also provide valuable insights into your child’s learning style and areas where they may need extra support. They might also be able to suggest specific strategies or resources to use at home.

Help your child develop organizational and time management skills. Guide them in breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and encourage them to use a planner to keep track of assignments and due dates. This will not only help them stay on top of their homework but also teach them valuable skills that will benefit their future academic and professional lives.

Offer encouragement and motivation. Show your interest and support by asking about their homework and offering help without being too pushy. Provide positive reinforcement and praise their efforts, even for small achievements. This will boost their confidence and motivate them to take responsibility for their learning.

Be available to answer questions and provide clarification. If your child struggles with a concept, take the time to explain it in a different way or provide examples that relate to their everyday life. You can also seek additional resources or consult their teacher for guidance on how to help them understand the material effectively.

Helping your child with their homework should be a positive experience that fosters a love of learning. Remember that every child learns differently, so be patient, adaptable, and always encourage their curiosity and independence. By creating a supportive and stimulating environment at home, you can make a significant impact on their academic success and overall development.

It is important to also keep in mind that every child is unique, and the level of involvement and support they require may vary. Some children may prefer to work more independently, while others may seek your active participation. Pay attention to your child’s preferences and adapt your approach accordingly.

Supporting your child’s learning at home goes beyond just helping with homework. Encourage a love of reading by setting aside time for it every day and providing a variety of engaging books. Also, take advantage of everyday opportunities to apply academic skills to real-life situations, such as calculating discounts while grocery shopping or identifying street signs while driving.

Creativity is an invaluable asset, and fostering it can unlock new doors of innovation and self-discovery. Often, we associate creativity with a select few – artists, writers, musicians – but every individual possesses a unique well of imagination waiting to be tapped. Sparking creativity is about providing the right fuel and environment for our minds to wander, explore, and generate new ideas. Here are some fun activities to ignite that creative flame and keep it burning bright.

First, embrace the power of play. Adult life can be serious and structured, so carving out time for playful activities is essential. Try something like a game night with friends, where you can let loose, be silly, and engage in friendly competition. Monopolize your way to property mogul status, or try charades to get everyone acting and guessing. These games are an excellent way to exercise our brains, think strategically, and foster a sense of camaraderie.

Secondly, step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Novel experiences help us see the world from a different perspective and can unlock hidden passions or talents. Sign up for a dance class, learn a new language, or experiment with photography. Pushing ourselves into unfamiliar territories challenges our brains to adapt and makes way for fresh ideas and a renewed sense of curiosity.

Another great way to ignite creativity is through collaborative projects. Teaming up with others allows us to merge diverse skill sets, brainstorm, and build upon each other’s ideas. Whether it’s a community garden project, a book club, or a startup venture, collaborative efforts often lead to innovative solutions and unexpected creative outcomes. Don’t be afraid to reach out and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passions.

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the importance of daydreaming. Schedule some ‘me’ time, find a quiet spot, and let your mind wander. You might be surprised at the ideas that bubble to the surface. Daydreaming allows our minds to make connections and explore possibilities without the constraints of reality. Many inventors, writers, and thinkers attribute their ‘aha’ moments to the power of daydreaming.

These activities are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to fostering creativity. By embracing play, seeking novel experiences, collaborating with others, and making time for daydreaming, we can unlock our imaginative potential and approach life with a renewed sense of wonder and creativity. So, keep an open mind, explore new avenues, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box!

Additionally, one of the simplest yet most effective ways to spark creativity is to keep a journal or sketchbook close by. Whenever an idea, image, or thought pops into your head, jot it down or sketch it out. This practice not only helps capture fleeting moments of inspiration but also trains your brain to be more receptive to new ideas. The more you engage in this creative habit, the more you’ll find yourself noticing and appreciating the little sparks of creativity that surround you every day. Before long, you’ll have a treasure trove of ideas to explore and expand upon.

The creative process is deeply intertwined with our emotions, and sometimes, the best way to spark creativity is to explore and express our feelings. Whether through art, music, writing, or movement, finding an outlet for your emotions can unlock a flood of inspiration. For instance, listening to a certain playlist might evoke feelings of nostalgia, prompting you to write a story set in your childhood neighborhood. Alternatively, expressing your emotions through dance might help you channel your feelings into a new choreography piece. By embracing and exploring our emotions, we open ourselves up to a wealth of creative possibilities.

Finally, creativity often thrives when we expose ourselves to diverse influences and experiences. Immerse yourself in different art forms to broaden your creative horizons. Attend a local art exhibition, watch a foreign film, or listen to a genre of music you’ve never explored before. By doing so, you’ll not only gain a deeper understanding of the creative process across various mediums but also draw connections and find inspiration in unexpected places. For instance, a painting might inspire a new flavor combination for your culinary creations, or a line from a poem could spark an idea for a photography project.

Positive discipline is an approach to child-rearing that focuses on firm but kind guidance, teaching self-discipline and responsibility while promoting positive behavior. It’s a shift from traditional punishment-based discipline, which often relies on power struggles and can lead to resentment and rebellion. Here are some effective positive discipline techniques that can help parents raise responsible and respectful children:

First, encourage positive behavior. Instead of solely focusing on correcting misbehavior, make an effort to catch your child doing something good and offer specific praise. For example, say, “I noticed how you shared your toys with your sibling today. That was really kind and thoughtful.” This reinforces good behavior and motivates children to repeat it.

Another effective technique is to set clear and reasonable expectations. Establish family rules and consequences together, ensuring everyone understands the boundaries. For instance, involve your children in creating a list of rules for screen time usage and discuss the natural consequences if these rules are not followed, such as losing screen privileges for a certain period.

Consistent discipline is also key. Inconsistent responses to a child’s behavior can create confusion and encourage them to test limits. When both parents, or caregivers, present a united front and apply consequences fairly and calmly, it teaches children about accountability and helps them understand that actions have consequences.

Additionally, encourage emotional intelligence by teaching your child to identify and manage their emotions. Help them develop self-calming skills, such as deep breathing or counting to ten, which can defuse temper tantrums or angry outbursts. This not only helps children regulate their emotions but also teaches them important skills for dealing with challenging situations in the future.

One of the most powerful tools in a parent’s arsenal is active listening. When your child feels heard and understood, they are more likely to cooperate. Make eye contact, get down to their level, and give them your undivided attention when they are sharing their thoughts or concerns. Reflect back their feelings to show empathy and let them know you ‘get it’.

These techniques empower children, teaching them valuable skills for life while fostering a strong, respectful relationship with parents or caregivers. Remember, positive discipline is a journey, and it may take time and practice to see results. Each child is unique, so adapt these strategies to fit your family’s needs and always offer love and support along the way.

By implementing these positive discipline techniques, parents can effectively guide their children toward becoming responsible, respectful, and emotionally intelligent individuals. It’s all about equipping our children with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges and make positive choices, all while fostering a strong and loving parent-child relationship.

Through positive discipline, we can help our children grow into their best selves and empower them to face the world with confidence and resilience. Remember, it’s a journey, and every small step towards positive discipline is a step towards a brighter future for our children.

Positive discipline is an investment in your child’s future, and by using these techniques, you’ll be well on your way to raising responsible, respectful, and emotionally intelligent individuals who are a joy to themselves and those around them.

As a parent, one of your primary goals is to raise your child to become a capable and independent adult. While it can be tempting to shield your little ones from harm and risk, taking a protective stance on everything, it is important to remember that allowing them to take calculated risks and make their own decisions is crucial for their development. Fostering independence in children is a delicate balance between providing a safe environment and encouraging them to explore and learn from their mistakes.

One approach to consider is offering them age-appropriate responsibilities. This could mean letting your toddler help pour their own cereal or allowing your teenager to manage their own schedule and academic workload. Giving children responsibilities teaches them about cause and effect and helps them develop a sense of capability and self-reliance. It is also beneficial to offer choices whenever possible. Instead of always prescribing their activities, allow them to make decisions, such as choosing between two healthy snacks or deciding which park to visit. This simple act empowers them and helps them build decision-making skills and confidence in their abilities.

Another aspect of encouraging independence is learning to manage risks. While it’s only natural to want to protect your children from harm, shielding them from all potential dangers does them a disservice. Allowing children to take calculated risks, such as climbing a tree or riding a bike, helps them develop a sense of adventure and builds their confidence. Of course, this doesn’t mean we should let them do whatever they want without boundaries. Setting clear and consistent limits is essential. Communicate the boundaries and explain the reasons behind them, fostering an understanding of responsibility and self-regulation.

Additionally, parents should embrace their child’s individuality and unique path. Every child is different, and what may be a suitable risk for one may not be for another. Respect your child’s temperament and comfort level, and avoid pushing them beyond their limits. Instead, offer support and guidance as they navigate their own path towards independence. This may involve difficult conversations and letting them experience natural consequences, which can be a powerful teaching tool.

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be challenging to step back and let our children take the lead. However, by offering age-appropriate responsibilities, choices, and opportunities to take calculated risks, we can foster independence and resilience. Letting go a little at a time will help them gain the confidence and skills they need to navigate the world on their own. After all, isn’t that what being a parent is all about? Preparing our children for a future where they can soar confidently and independently.

How do you encourage independence in your children? Do you find it challenging to let go and allow them to take safe risks? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! Remember, every child is unique, and so is their journey towards independence. Embracing their individuality and providing a supportive environment will set them on a path to success.

Teaching children about money and its effective management is a crucial aspect of their overall education and one that will impact their lives significantly. Many people struggle with financial literacy, and this can often be traced back to a lack of early education on the topic. So, when should parents start teaching their children about money, and what are some age-appropriate lessons to impart?

Financial experts suggest that it is never too early to start. Even young children can grasp basic concepts of money and its value. For example, toddlers can start learning about coins and their denominations, and simple lessons on saving can be introduced. As children grow, the lessons can become more intricate and detailed, covering a range of financial topics.

During the elementary school years, children can begin to understand the difference between needs and wants. This is a fundamental lesson in financial literacy, as it teaches children about budgeting and prioritizing expenses. Parents can involve their children in family budgeting exercises, such as planning a meal or a small vacation, to illustrate the concept of needs and wants.

As children enter their pre-teen and teenage years, they can start grasping more complex concepts, such as compound interest and investments. This is a great time to open a savings account and teach children about the power of saving and the benefits of long-term financial planning. Parents can also encourage their teenagers to seek part-time jobs or start small businesses to understand earning and managing money.

One of the most effective ways to teach children about money is to involve them in everyday financial decisions and activities. This can include trips to the bank, budgeting for groceries, or even planning for a large family purchase. These real-life experiences offer valuable lessons and help children understand the practical applications of financial literacy.

Additionally, parents can utilize games and apps to make learning about money fun and engaging. There are many interactive resources available that can supplement formal lessons and make financial education entertaining for children.

It is also essential for parents to model good financial behavior. Children learn by observing, and they are more likely to adopt positive financial habits if they see their parents practicing them. This includes demonstrating responsible spending, saving, and borrowing behaviors and being transparent about family financial decisions, where appropriate.

Remember, teaching kids about money is an ongoing process, and it requires patience and consistency. Start with basic concepts and gradually build on them as your children grow, ensuring that the lessons are tailored to their age and level of understanding. Financial literacy is a vital skill that will benefit your children throughout their lives.

So, whether you’re reading this as a parent or an educator, take the time to impart these valuable lessons and set our youth up for a brighter and more secure financial future. After all, an investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.

We hope these insights will inspire meaningful conversations and empower young minds toward a financially responsible future.

As a parent, one of the most challenging aspects of toddlerhood is undoubtedly dealing with tantrums. These emotional outbursts can leave parents feeling frustrated, helpless, and unsure of how to respond effectively. Staying calm in the face of your child’s tantrum is essential, both for your own well-being and for teaching your child how to regulate their emotions. So, what can you do to keep your cool when your toddler loses theirs?

First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand why tantrums happen. Toddlers are still learning how to manage their emotions and express their needs effectively. They may become overwhelmed by strong feelings, such as frustration, anger, or disappointment, and lack the coping mechanisms to handle them constructively. As a result, they lash out with crying, screaming, kicking, or hitting. Recognizing that tantrums are a typical part of toddler development can help you respond with patience and empathy.

When your child is in the midst of a tantrum, it’s important to remain calm. Easier said than done, right? However, your reaction greatly influences how your child learns to manage their emotions. Speaking in a gentle and calm tone can help to de-escalate the situation and show your child that you are in control. Take a few deep breaths or count to ten if you need a moment to center yourself. Remind yourself that this too shall pass!

Using a calm and gentle approach doesn’t mean giving in to your child’s demands. It’s about responding to their underlying emotions rather than rewarding or reinforcing the tantrum behavior. Try to identify the trigger for the tantrum and acknowledge your child’s feelings. For example, you could say, “I know you’re upset because you wanted another cookie. It’s hard when we can’t have what we want right now.” This simple act of validation can help your child feel understood and may even help to shorten the duration of the tantrum.

Offer comfort and support, but avoid trying to reason with your child in the heat of the moment. Their ability to listen and process logic is limited when they are overwhelmed by big emotions. Instead, wait until they have calmed down to discuss the issue further. During a tantrum, it’s also essential to ensure your child’s safety, especially if they are kicking, hitting, or throwing things. Remove them from any potentially dangerous situations and gently hold them to prevent harm.

One effective strategy to de-escalate a tantrum is to distract your child with something else. This technique works best for younger toddlers who can be easily redirected. For example, you could offer a favorite toy or book, suggest going outside for a walk, or sing a silly song to shift their focus away from the source of their distress. Sometimes, a change of scenery or offering a snack can also help to calm your child and improve their mood.

It’s also helpful to establish consistent routines and set clear boundaries to prevent tantrums from occurring in the first place. For instance, ensure your child is getting enough sleep and eating regular meals, as hunger and fatigue can contribute to irritability. Provide choices whenever possible to give your child a sense of control, such as letting them choose between two outfit options or deciding which snack to have. This sense of autonomy can reduce power struggles and increase their cooperation.

Finally, remember to take care of yourself, too! Parenting is a challenging job, and it’s essential to practice self-care so you can approach each day with renewed energy and patience. Find healthy outlets for your stress, such as exercising, meditating, or connecting with other understanding parents. By modeling healthy coping strategies, you are teaching your child valuable lessons about emotional regulation that will benefit them throughout their life.

Dealing with tantrums can be exhausting and frustrating, but it’s crucial to remember that this phase won’t last forever. With patience, understanding, and the right tools, you can help your child navigate their big emotions and develop essential skills for managing their feelings appropriately. Stay calm, offer empathy and support, and know that you are doing the best you can!

Creating a stable and predictable environment for children to thrive is an important aspect of parenting. Routines provide structure and a sense of security, which are essential for a child’s overall well-being and happiness. A consistent routine teaches children to manage their time effectively and helps them develop self-discipline. It also fosters a sense of independence as they learn to rely on their own internal structure rather than external prompts.

Numerous benefits come with establishing a routine for your child. Firstly, it provides a sense of security and predictability, which are crucial for their emotional development. Knowing what to expect from their daily routines can reduce anxiety and help them feel more in control of their lives. A consistent routine also helps children develop a healthy sleep schedule, which is vital for their physical and mental health. Adequate sleep ensures they are well-rested, improving their mood and cognitive function.

Implementing a routine fosters responsibility and self-care habits. When children have designated times for bathing, brushing their teeth, and getting dressed, they learn to prioritize personal hygiene and develop good habits that will benefit them throughout their lives. Additionally, a routine provides opportunities for quality family time and shared experiences. Mealtimes, bedtime stories, and dedicated playtimes allow for bonding, open communication, and the creation of cherished memories.

A daily routine helps children understand the concept of time management. As they become aware of the flow of their day, they learn to manage their time effectively and prioritize tasks. This skill will benefit them not only in their academic pursuits but also in their future careers and adult lives. Routines also encourage healthier eating habits. Scheduled mealtimes ensure children receive proper nutrition and avoid excessive snacking.

Furthermore, a consistent routine contributes to a child’s sense of autonomy. As they navigate their daily routines, they develop the ability to make decisions and take responsibility for their actions. This sense of agency boosts their self-esteem and encourages self-motivation. Routines also provide opportunities for learning and development. Dedicated reading times, educational activities, or hobbies help nurture their curiosity, skills, and interests.

Routines offer a sense of familiarity, which is especially important during stressful or uncertain times. Transitions, such as starting school or moving to a new home, can be smoother when children have a consistent routine to rely on. This sense of stability helps them adapt to changes and cope with stress more effectively.

In conclusion, creating a structured routine for your child is paramount to their happiness and overall well-being. It empowers them with a sense of security, independence, and self-discipline. Through consistent routines, children develop essential skills, healthy habits, and a positive outlook, setting them up for success in all aspects of life. So, embrace the power of routine and watch your little ones thrive! Remember, a happy routine makes for happy kids!

Sibling rivalry is as old as time itself, and most families experience some level of conflict between brothers and sisters. From childhood through adolescence and even into adulthood, siblings can bicker, argue, and compete with one another. While a certain amount of disagreement is normal and can even be healthy, it’s important to manage these disputes constructively to ensure a peaceful home environment.

So, what’s the best way to handle sibling rivalry? First, it’s crucial to understand the underlying causes. Siblings may fight due to jealousy, competition for parental attention or resources, differences in personality or interests, or simply because they are spending too much time together without a break. By identifying the specific triggers for conflict in your family, you can begin to address them more effectively.

One key strategy for reducing sibling rivalry is to encourage open communication and problem-solving skills. Teach your children how to express their feelings and needs assertively and respectfully, and help them practice active listening when their sibling is sharing their point of view. This can help them resolve disputes more calmly and collaboratively.

It’s also important to set clear and consistent rules and consequences for inappropriate behavior. Make it clear that while disagreements are normal, certain actions, such as name-calling, hitting, or damaging property, are unacceptable. Establish fair and age-appropriate consequences, such as time-outs or the removal of privileges, and be consistent in enforcing these boundaries.

Additionally, look for opportunities to foster cooperation and teamwork among your children. Encourage them to work together on household tasks or collaborative projects, and praise them when they exhibit kindness, sharing, or other positive behaviors toward one another. Celebrating each child’s unique strengths and contributions can also help to reduce feelings of competition and jealousy.

Another tactic is to ensure that each child has some special one-on-one time with you. This dedicated time can help them feel valued and loved and provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns or issues they may be having with their sibling(s). It also reinforces the message that you are there for them individually, as well as part of the family unit.

Finally, remember that modeling positive conflict resolution skills is crucial. Children learn by example, so show them how to handle disagreements calmly, respectfully, and productively. Apologize when you make a mistake and involve your children in finding solutions to family conflicts, so they learn the value of compromise and cooperation.

While sibling rivalry may never completely disappear, by implementing these strategies, you can help your children manage their conflicts more effectively and promote a calmer, more harmonious home environment. With the right tools and mindset, sibling rivalry can be transformed into opportunities for growth, empathy, and stronger family bonds.

Remember, each family is unique, so adapt these strategies to fit your family’s dynamics and values. If sibling rivalry intensifies or you feel overwhelmed or concerned about the level of conflict in your home, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Many family therapists or counselors specialize in helping families navigate these challenges and can offer personalized guidance and strategies for peace.

Is there anything you would like to add or any specific strategies that have worked for your family? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below – let’s learn from each other! Together, we can foster more peaceful and loving relationships within our families and help our children thrive.

As parents, we want our children to grow up feeling confident and secure in themselves. After all, a strong sense of self-worth is the foundation for a lifetime of healthy relationships, resilience, and overall well-being. So, how can we as parents nurture self-esteem in our little ones from the very start?

Experts agree that building self-esteem begins in infancy. “From the moment a baby enters the world, they are taking in their environment and forming their sense of self,” says Dr. Susan Liverford, a renowned child psychologist. “The early years are critical for laying the groundwork for healthy self-esteem.”

So, what are the building blocks of confidence during these formative years? For one, creating a safe and nurturing environment is key. “Children need to feel secure and loved unconditionally,” says Dr. Liverford. “This means responding sensitively to their needs, offering physical comfort, and providing a predictable routine.” Indeed, consistent caregiving is essential for infants to develop a sense of trust in themselves and their surroundings.

Positive parenting strategies also play a pivotal role. “It’s important to offer specific praise and encouragement, focusing on your child’s efforts rather than innate abilities,” advises Dr. Jennifer Hartstein, a child and adolescent psychologist. “For instance, praising your toddler for their perseverance in building a tower, rather than simply saying they are smart, fosters a growth mindset and boosts self-esteem.”

Providing opportunities for autonomy and mastery is another crucial aspect. “Let your child take the lead and explore their interests,” suggests Dr. Hartstein. “Whether it’s allowing them to feed themselves or offering age-appropriate choices, these small acts of independence build confidence.” By giving children the space to try, fail, and try again, we empower them to trust in their abilities and develop a can-do attitude.

Additionally, fostering social-emotional skills is fundamental to self-esteem development. “Teaching children how to identify and manage their emotions, as well as interact positively with others, sets the stage for strong self-worth,” explains Dr. Liverford. Reading books about emotions, naming feelings, and encouraging empathy through everyday conversations are simple yet powerful ways to nurture these skills.

In a world that can sometimes feel uncertain, giving our children the gift of self-confidence is invaluable. By creating a loving and supportive environment, offering specific praise, encouraging autonomy, and promoting social-emotional skills, we can help our little ones build a solid foundation of self-esteem that will carry them through childhood and beyond. After all, confident children become confident adults who can conquer the world.

Remember, your local pediatrician or child development expert can also provide guidance and resources tailored to your child’s unique needs, offering further support on your parenting journey.

By implementing these simple yet impactful strategies, we can empower our children to navigate life with confidence, resilience, and a deep sense of self-worth.