Building a Better Self-Image

In the era of social media and constant comparison, building a healthy self-image has become more challenging than ever. Many people find they are stuck in a cycle of self-criticism, low self-worth, and in an ongoing battle to meet unrealistic expectations. Building a better self-image does have its obstacles, but it is a key component in living an all around happy and fulfilling life. 

Practice Forgiveness and Compassion

One of the largest obstacles in building a better self-image is perfectionism. People who find themselves stuck in a perfectionist mindset are more likely to experience frequent negative self-talk, feelings of hopelessness, and all around dissatisfaction with oneself. Building a healthy self-image comes with recognizing one's flaws and allowing yourself to embrace them and practice self-compassion. Perfectionism does not leave room for mistakes and paints every action as either success or failure with  no in between. Perfectionism is an impossible standard that will more often than not result in disappointment. Allowing yourself to feel forgiveness and compassion in making mistakes decreases feelings of negativity and increases your likelihood of a better self-image

Challenge Negative Self-Talk

When I hear clients speaking to or about themselves in a self-deprecating manner I always challenge the thought by asking if they would say that to their friend/ loved one. Typically they are appalled at the thought of saying such hurtful things to people they love. It is important to keep in mind that what we tell ourselves, our brain believes. The same way you would not want to keep a negative and overly critical person around you in life, you should not be that negative and overly critical person to yourself. 

Increase Gratitude and Positivity

The more we look at the good, the good gets better. When you are struggling with poor self-image or self-worth it is often difficult to see positives about yourself or your life. I like to challenge clients to practice “noticing joy.” This practice works to highlight small moments of joy in regular everyday life that you typically would not pay any mind to. The more we focus on positives both in our lives and about ourselves the more our brain starts to highlight and increase positivity and thus decrease negative thoughts.

Be Realistic

Building a better self-image does not happen overnight. It takes time and can be frustrating fighting against the inner critic in ourselves. Breaking down the overall task of increasing self-worth by setting small weekly goals/ habits can help make it less overwhelming and increases the likelihood of the practice sticking. Remember that progress is not linear and learning from mistakes is what makes you stronger. By practicing forgiveness and compassion, challenging negative self-talk, and increasing gratitude and positivity, you can cultivate a deep sense of self-acceptance and confidence.