Self-Respect is an empowering emotion that can be cultivated.

Self-respect is the fruit of discipline; the sense of dignity grows with the ability to say NO to oneself. ~anon.

Maxwell Maltz says he feels certain "that there is no more accurate measure of an individual's value than his own degree of self-respect.".  He appreciated the great importance of self-respect as a guiding force.  Regardless of people's diverse backgrounds and the uniquely individual character of their experiences, they seek for themselves self-respect and an identity they can be proud of.

He cautions to avoid the trap of materialism and building a fat bank account, "With, self-respect you reach out toward your full potential as a human being.  Without self-respect, you are a criminal in hiding, living in a prison you have built around yourself, and even if the prison is comfortable and luxurious, it is still a prison".  If you seek money for money's sake your victory will be hollow.

We must move toward a good feeling about ourselves and our position of dignity and status in the world.  We need to cement our determination by feeling strongly about our search for self-respect.  Napoleon Hill would say to create a burning desire in yourself for the self-respect, the success, and the dignity you seek.

"Your next move is forward, out of inertia and into determination and enthusiasm for your worthwhile goals.  Your goal is to find the respect you need to feel for yourself and for others to feel fulfilled and happy.  Reach out toward anything that will help you feel a greater sense of personal worth."  You can seek to build a family, a business or a career with the criteria of being meaningful, constructive and positive pursuits as your guide.

Conclusion:

"Whatever you are building for yourself and others in your world is fundamental to your life.  As you build, as you set your goals and move toward them, make self-respect the cement that binds them and that gives them meaning.  Give your activities meaning and power as you inter-mesh them with understanding and sincerity."

We can improve our station in life and gain inner satisfaction at the same time.