'Better Man

"Better Man": What Robbie Williams’ Story Teaches Us About Self-Worth

I recently watched Better Man, the new biopic about international music icon Robbie Williams—and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since.

The Journey of Robbie Williams

While Robbie is best known in the U.S. for his hit song Angels, his global fame is staggering. He sold out stadiums, broke concert records, and captivated millions of fans. But behind the spotlight was a man quietly battling something far more powerful than fame could fix: his self-perception.

What made this film so deeply impactful was the visual metaphor it used to tell that story. Throughout much of Better Man, Robbie is portrayed with a CGI monkey face—an unmissable symbol of how he saw himself. While fans screamed his name and celebrated him as a superstar, he couldn’t feel it. He saw himself as “just a performing monkey.” Despite his success, his deep-rooted negative core beliefs told him he was never enough.

The Impact of Internal Beliefs

This, to me as a therapist, was one of the most striking and honest portrayals of the impact our internal beliefs have on our lives. No amount of success, money, or admiration can heal the pain of not feeling worthy.

This is something I see often in my work: the disconnect between how the world sees someone and how they see themselves. What Better Man makes clear is that healing doesn't come from the outside in—it comes from the inside out.

Understanding Negative Core Beliefs

If you struggle with feeling like a fraud, not good enough, or like you’re constantly “performing” for approval, you’re not alone. These are signs of negative core beliefs—deep stories we carry, often from early life, that tell us who we are (and usually, what we’re not). They’re painful, persistent, and powerful. But they are not permanent.

The Role of Therapy

Therapy offers a space to examine and shift those beliefs. We work together to rewrite the script—to help you see yourself not as a monkey in the spotlight, but as a human being worthy of compassion, confidence, and peace.

If you’re ready to change the way you see yourself, I’d be honored to support you in that journey. Because how you see yourself is what truly matters—and it can change.

The Path to Self-Worth

Embracing Your True Self

Understanding your self-worth is a journey. It requires introspection and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. Many people, like Robbie, may feel they are not enough despite their achievements. This feeling can stem from childhood experiences or societal pressures.

Building a Support System

Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals can make a significant difference. Friends, family, or a therapist can provide the encouragement you need to see your true value. Sharing your feelings and experiences can help alleviate the burden of negative beliefs.

Practicing Self-Compassion

Self-compassion is crucial in this journey. It involves treating yourself with kindness, especially during difficult times. Acknowledge your feelings without judgment. Understand that everyone struggles with self-doubt at some point.

Setting Realistic Goals

Setting achievable goals can help you build confidence. Start small and gradually work your way up. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how minor they may seem. Each step forward is a victory.

Conclusion: Your Worth is Inherent

In conclusion, the story of Robbie Williams in Better Man serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-worth. Healing and self-acceptance come from within. If you find yourself struggling with negative beliefs, remember that you are not alone.

My office is in network with several insurance companies, including AETNA, UnitedHealthcare, and Oxford. Please reach out to make an appointment.

By embracing your true self, building a support system, practicing self-compassion, and setting realistic goals, you can change the narrative of your life. Your worth is inherent, and it’s time to recognize it.