3 myths about self-image

If you have a self-image problem, you’re among friends. I venture to say that most, if not all, of us have dealt with self-image issues. And many of us find it a recurring theme in our lives. Let’s bust three of the myths.

1) You either have a good self-image or you don’t. That absolutely is not true. You can change your self-image. It is not something with which you’re born, such as the color of your eyes. Your self-image is formed in many ways, from messages you receive from those close to you as well as the community and society around you—and it can be changed by messages you give yourself. Developing a healthy self-image may not be easy, but one step at a time, it can be done.
2) As a woman, your self-image is dependent on weight and dress size. No again! In fact, haven’t you known some large women who dress beautifully, exude self-confidence, have an inner glow and display a disarmingly inviting self-image? I have. I love seeing it. It’s always a reminder to me that a healthy self-image is an inside job. It really isn’t about how we look on the outside. It’s a choice we can make. To which messages will we listen—the positive ones or the negative?
3) Self-confidence is only for extroverts. This myth says that introverts will never be accepted in the same way extroverts are in our society. Since you have the ability through self-talk to give yourself messages about how acceptable you are, you do not have to rely on what society admires or reveres. If you’re an extrovert, you might be thinking about the self-image issues you face—the same as your introverted sisters! It doesn’t matter. How we see ourselves is what really matters. Our worth is not dependent on the opinions of others.

You can think of lots of excuses for your poor self-image, many reasons it developed. But the truth is, you don’t have to live with low self-esteem. There is another, more joyful and powerful way to live! Sign up now for my monthly ezine (on the right). And contact me today for a no-obligation, complimentary strategy session to see how you can live in that more joyful place with the inner glow of a healthy self-image.