Talking about self-image can bring up a lot of uncertain feelings. But, it’s a crucial topic to dive into from time to time. Your self-image is the foundation of how you perceive yourself, as well the story you tell about yourself.
Your beliefs, emotions, and actions are all interlinked with the way you see and think about yourself. If you don’t address your self-image on a regular basis, you may find your progress being hindered. What do I mean when I say progress? I’m talking about all the amazing thing you’re capable of!
When we make positive changes in our life without improving our self-image at the same time, the changes will be temporary. In the end, we’ll have difficulty maintaining these positive changes. Unless, we do the inner work ourselves.
It’s also important to understand, when you make changes in yourself, it won’t be a perfect process. But, shifting your self-image is a fundamental step in getting results. If you’re constantly putting yourself down, you’ll never be able to more forward.
Here are some practical tips for improving your self-image. Apply these tips whenever you’re looking to make a positive change in your life. Your self-image goes hand-in-hand with your progress.
1. See yourself as capable
Be sure you are always seeing yourself as capable. Be willing and ready to believe in yourself, even if it seems like a bit of a stretch. It’s natural for our brains to focus on information that confirms our beliefs. So, if we’re thinking negatively about ourselves, our brains will focus on those thoughts.
It may feel as though you are deceiving yourself or being unrealistic. However, this feeling is normal! It’s important to push that negative belief aside and believe that you can achieve the things you desire. You can do it.
How to do this:
- Reflect on your past accomplishments to affirm your capabilities.
- Set realistic goals you can accomplish and celebrate.
- View challenges as an opportunity for growth.
2. Let go of familiar beliefs
Familiar beliefs can be difficult to let go of, even if they are negative. For example, if you believe you are “always late” or “too scatter brained”, it may feel as though you cannot change that self-image.
However, it is possible to shift your mindset and view yourself in a more positive light. Think about yourself as someone who arrives early, or someone who is very focused and productive. It may feel untrue at first, but over time, you’ll see it is very empowering.
Don’t let these familiar beliefs become part of your identity.
How to do this:
- Meditate and practice mindfulness. Work on letting go of negative thoughts.
- Practice journaling and reflect on who you are and where you want to be.
3. Acknowledge your worth
Sometimes, we’re afraid to acknowledge our own self-worth because we fear criticism or being told we aren’t good at what we do. It is important to recognize our strengths while also striving for improvement at the same time.
If we truly believe we are great at something, it can help inspire us to act in ways that align with that belief. This is where positive affirmations come in!
How to do this:
- Celebrate all of your accomplishments, big or small.
- Practice using positive “I am” affirmations.
4. Practice self-compassion
Treat yourself with kindness and give yourself grace. I like to imagine myself as a friend. Treat yourself with the same level of respect as you would a good friend or a family member.
Self-compassion can help to reduce negative self-talk and increase positive feelings about yourself. I understand we’re our biggest critic and our own worst enemy. But, we can also be our biggest cheerleaders as well.
Root for yourself, be kind to yourself, and give yourself rest when you need it. It’s important to pay attention to our own needs and treat our bodies and minds with respect. They do so much for us.
How to do this:
- Engage in self-care activities when needed.
- Set healthy boundaries. Learn to say “no” when you have to.
5. Use affirmations and visualization
I love using “I am” affirmations to help improve my self-image. It’s incredibly easy to implement affirmations into your life. You can write them in a journal, or just use the Notes app on your phone. Recite a few after you eat breakfast or before you take a shower.
Visualization is also very powerful. Making a positive vision board can help improve your self-image. Decorate with photos of yourself “in your happy place”. Seeing yourself smiling or with friends can be an immediate mood-boost. You can also decorate it with quotes and affirmations.
How to do this:
- Write a list of positive affirmations that make you feel good about yourself.
- Create a physical or digital vision board to keep you motivated.
- Use your journal to collect positive quotes and affirmations and reflect on them daily.
6. Avoid comparison
Comparison really is the thief of joy. I have found there is a fine line between inspiration and comparison. It’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is different and unique. Focus on yourself and cultivate your own greatness.
Try not to get caught up in comparing yourself to others. I understand it’s easy to look at social media and get caught up in FOMO. And, having inspiring role models can really motivate us. But, what’s even better is being your own person and feeling comfortable in your own skin. It’s a learning process but the journey is worth it.
How to do this:
- Give yourself a social media detox when needed. Even if its only for a day.
- Unfollow accounts that steal joy or make you feel inadequate.
7. Surround yourself with positivity
They say you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. Be sure you are surrounding yourself with people that bring you up instead of tearing you down. Spend time with people that make you laugh and feel good about yourself.
I also think it’s important to seek positivity in our daily lives. Read a positive blog, listen to upbeat music, or dive into a comedy special. Attract as much positive energy from the universe as you can. It’s the best!
How to do this:
- Consider cutting ties with people that do not make you feel good about yourself.
- Schedule time with friends and loved ones that bring you joy.
- Join meetups, clubs, or forums filled with like-minded people that share your interests.
8. Practice gratitude
I’m always talking about gratitude because it’s very simple to integrate into your life. And, its important! Being grateful does wonders for positive thinking.
How to do this:
- Keep a gratitude journal or designate a section in your planner for gratitude.
- Talk with a friend or partner about what you’re grateful for each day.
- Every morning, consider reflecting on 3 things you are grateful for in life.
Building a healthy self-image isn’t easy, but it is possible. With focus and dedication, it’s possible to take small steps towards shifting your perspective of yourself. It’s important to be kind to ourselves throughout this process, and remember that we are capable of greatness!
Self-image evolution is an ongoing process but by taking small steps each day, we can start to see results over time. Making positive changes internally can make a big difference on our outlook on life and the way we show up in it.
Improving one’s self-image is always an ongoing process. There is a lot of self-reflection involved, as well as dedication and patience. Change is gradual, and it’s important to celebrate your personal progress along the journey.
By consistently working on your self-image, you’ll naturally cultivate a more positive outlook. And remember, it’s well-deserved!
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