By Ayesha Hossain

What is Self-Image?

Self-Image can be defined as an integral part of life-coaching and personal development. It has a major impact on our lives and if we do not understand the way it affects us, it may keep us from accomplishing the goals we want to achieve.

It is basically the means in which we perceive ourselves. It is about knowing yourself and is the beginning of all wisdom within ourselves. It is not merely the simple reflection of your own image, but it is what you see beyond it. It is deeper than our own process of imagination. Our self-image develops over a lifetime of experiences through learning and societal influence.

How Do We Create Our Own Self-Image?

There are several factors that contribute to building one’s self-image. But, let’s talk about the three major components that play a vital role in building our self-image.

The 3 Components of Self-Image

To begin with, the way you perceive yourself is the first component. The second one is about the way we think other people’s perception of us and is the most common one since we simply can’t let go of this thinking. And the third is the way we would like to perceive ourselves. To be more precise, it is about your future self--it is about the kind of person you want to be for your own good.

So, we are done with explaining what self-image is and it’s three components. Let’s move on to why it is so important for our overall well-being.

Why is Self-Image important?

Not all of us care about what self-image is. It should be our topmost priority since it determines our inner self and pushes us to be the best version of ourselves. We are all flawed and we are constantly battling with our insecurities and self-doubt. We have fear about not being good enough and perfect. You should matter the most to yourself. You have to give up all the negative thoughts that are consuming you each and everyday. You can’t be a people-pleaser and you do not have to be one. Be true to yourself and value yourself the most.

What Can You Do to Expand Your Self-Image?

So, here is what we can do to change our self-image for our own good. Let’s try to control what is outside of us and then we can work on our inner self.

• Understand that you are good in your area of genius

• Give up the continual comparisons

• Share your gifts

• Spread positivity

• Know that you are the best version of yourself

• Get that 1% better, smash that goal you have

• Passion first and profit second

• We all have stories that we tell ourselves

• We can be the author of our stories to have those changes and shifts

• What holds us back is fear so let go the fear you have within yourself

• You are resilient and you can do anything

• Be curious about everything so that you can discover your talents

• Explore and experiment because that's what growth is all about

• You need to have a meaning in your life

To conclude, you do not need any fixing. All you need is a mindset shift for the greater good. Your vulnerability is your strength and you just need to show up for yourself. Keep moving forward with good intentions and cherish yourself every single day.