Positive self-views

What are positive self views?

Positive self views are the general beliefs we have about ourselves being good, worthwhile human beings. For example, you may feel that, deep down, you are deserving of being treated kindly by others and having success in your life pursuits. These positive self beliefs are integral to your independent functioning and affect how you relate to others. ​

Why is it important to have positive self views?

Having positive self views helps guide your behavior in ways that enable you to live a more supportive, fulfilling life. When you feel badly about yourself, you unconsciously put in motion experiences that dis-confirm positive self-views and decrease the likelihood that you will experience the positive events that you seek. For example, you may feel like you are not good enough for a good relationship, a good job, or financial stability, so you stop engaging in behaviors that help you reach those goals. Then, you have let your negative self views limit the amount of happiness you can experience.

​Activities to develop this skill:

Self-Compassion

No one meets all of their goals all of the time. The ability to accept yourself, non-judgmentally, is key to having positive self-views. In this activity, you practice self-compassion to boost self-views.

Imagine Your Best Self

When we imagine things, our brains experience them as if they are real. So when you imagine your best self, your brain can begin to build pathways that help you develop positive views about yourself.

Learn about other Skills >>

Berkeley Well Being Institute