Teal Swan

Unworthiness, The Great Preservation Strategy

Jan 3, 2026
Explore how believing you’re unworthy can act as a self-preservation strategy in relationships. Delve into Jaren’s story to understand how childhood experiences shape feelings of undeservingness. Discover how this belief keeps emotional bonds intact, yet sabotages adult life and happiness. Teal explains the cultural narratives around deservingness and their impact on our motivations. Finally, learn to reframe your sense of worth to break free from these patterns and embrace true empowerment.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Jaren's Story Of Loss And Unworthiness

  • Jaren lost his business and house after a partner swindled him, and his wife withdrew their joint funds before leaving him.
  • His lifelong belief that he doesn't deserve wealth mirrors his parents' stingy, disengaged behavior and shapes his adult choices.
INSIGHT

Unworthiness As Relationship Preservation

  • Believing you are unworthy can preserve closeness with caregivers by explaining their neglect as deserved.
  • This subconscious strategy maintains perceived safety and alignment with family even when relationships are harmful.
INSIGHT

Beliefs Drive Behaviors That Mirror Outcomes

  • A core belief of unworthiness shifts your vibration and guarantees behaviors that prevent getting what you want.
  • This results in choices and relationships that perpetuate scarcity and dissatisfaction.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app