6 Ways to Build a Healthier Self-Image

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Your self-image is the way that you view yourself.

Those who have a healthy self-image look at themselves in a positive way. They are proud of their accomplishments and comfortable in their own skin.

Unfortunately, not everybody has a healthy self-image. Some people dwell on their flaws and fail to see many positives about themselves. Consequently, they can experience a drop in both self-esteem and self-confidence. This can have a negative effect on their overall health and well-being.

So, what about you? Do you have a healthy self-image, or do you struggle to see your own strengths and potential? We hope it’s the former, but if you don’t always recognize the good in yourself, consider the following. These are just a few of the steps you could take to build a healthier self-image.

#1: Accept the fact that you’re not perfect.

None of us are perfect, and we all make mistakes in life. We aren’t all talented at the same things – that’s part of what makes each person unique. So, you shouldn’t beat yourself up about your failings or your lack of talents in certain areas. When you begin to accept your imperfections, you can either take steps to change what can be changed, or you can live with the knowledge that it’s okay to be who you are, warts and all!

#2: Celebrate the good in you.

We have established that there will be parts of yourself that you’re not particularly happy with, but dwelling on these things is not the answer. When you’re always looking at yourself negatively, you will have fewer opportunities to celebrate all of the good things.

Take a step back from the negative self-talk and mute your inner critic. Show yourself some self-appreciation instead, and focus on the positives. Is there anything about your appearance that you like? What are some major accomplishments in your life? What do people say they like about you? Write it down in a journal if you need to, and by doing so, you will do a better job of loving yourself.

#3: Avoid the comparison trap.

This is something many of us are guilty of. We glance across the office at our co-workers and feel jealous of their successes, or we look at celebrities in magazines and wish that we were more attractive. But here’s the thing: While some people will naturally excel at certain tasks, and while other people will appear to have a flawless appearance, you shouldn’t be jealous of them. You should instead be focusing on your own talents, your best physical attributes, and your own successes.

And here’s something else to consider – you shouldn’t take people at surface value. Every single person on the planet has weaknesses, including the people you are jealous of. Don’t assume that they are better off than you because, at the end of the day, you never know what they are going through. Be happy for them, and be happy for yourself.

#4: Change what can be changed.

There are some aspects of yourself that you can’t change, so don’t worry if this is the case. However, there will be some things you can change. We aren’t saying you have to transform into a person that you’re not, but you can take steps to improve the person that you already are. If this will give you a healthier self-image, you might want to consider what this means for you.

For example, think about those work tasks that you don’t currently excel in. You could better yourself at work by seeking advice from co-workers you trust. You could also practice certain skills at home or take training courses to improve your skill set.

Then think about your appearance. It might be time to fill your wardrobe with new clothes if your current closet reflects your poor self-image. Look online or at local stores for the sweatshirts, dresses, jackets, and other items of clothing that will suit your body shape. When you dress in clothes that both look good and fit you comfortably, you should start feeling more confident about yourself.

In terms of your appearance, you might also want to seek the help of a professional. If you experience skin-related issues, you could book an appointment with a dermatologist for advice. You could also visit your hairdresser for a brand-new hairstyle. Changing up your look ever-so-slightly can give your self-image a boost and help you feel better about yourself.

#5: Cut out toxic relationships.

If there are people in your life who put you down, judge you for little-to-no reason, and generally make you feel bad about yourself, avoid them at all costs. Such toxic relationships will harm your self-image, and that won’t help you if you’re already feeling down about yourself.

Of course, there will be people that you can’t stay away from (co-workers, difficult family members). In such cases, do what you can to stand up for yourself. Or, take a different approach. When they speak down to you, remember that you don’t have to believe what they are saying. Remind yourself of all that is good about you. And remember that the people who are being rude to you are probably being mean as they are insecure themselves.

#6: Do something nice for somebody else.

When you do something nice for another person, you will naturally start to feel good about yourself knowing that you made a positive difference in somebody else’s life. You will feel as though you have accomplished something and that your life has been given meaning. As a result, you will start to cultivate a more positive self-image.

Make it your mission to show kindness each day. You could help an older lady with her groceries at the store, for example, or offer to cover a task when your co-worker is falling behind. You could give to a charity or even volunteer for a cause in your area. Not sure where to start? Check out any of these kindness examples for ideas.

In conclusion:

You are special, no matter how you’re feeling today. You have many strengths and talents, so focus on these things as you’re going about your day. If you do have a poor self-image, consider the suggestions we’ve made here. By working toward a healthier self-image, you will make a positive difference in your life.

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