Don’t Change Your Mirror, Change Your Outlook: Improve Your Self Image

Tips To Help You Improve Your Self Image

The disparity in what society views as an ideal weight or appearance and the variability in how people actually look is great. This disparity can cause you to question your appearance and ultimately your own self image may suffer.  However, taking some simple steps can help you to appreciate yourself for who you are and make healthy improvements on your own terms.  Here are a few tips to improve your self image.

Balance Your Strengths and Weaknesses

It is important to identify the things about yourself that you like, or your strengths. Understanding what these things are help to boost your confidence and help you look and feel better. In addition, you should identify the things about yourself that you would like to improve, or your weaknesses. You shouldn’t use this as an opportunity to beat yourself up about them. Knowing what your weaknesses are is the first step to taking action to make a positive change and turn them into strengths.

Stop the Comparisons

Forget what you may have heard about what is considered normal. Every person is unique. If there is something you want to change, determine what is ideal for you and work towards that. There is nothing wrong with identifying positive traits in others that you wish to attain. However, be realistic and choose wisely. For example, it’s okay to want to be more tolerant and accepting of others because you can take immediate steps to achieve this. Wanting to have a similar appearance to someone else is a less-realistic goal because genetics, biology and lifestyle all affect individual appearance and body makeup.  Remember that admiration is not the same as envy.

Exercise

If you are unhappy with your physical appearance, take Kanye West’s advice and get a workout plan. Exercise should be a regular part of your health regimen. It helps you maintain a healthy weight, condition your muscles and increase your cardiovascular endurance. Exercise also helps you to feel more balanced mentally and helps you think clearer. If you need immediate motivation, remember that summer is approaching. A higher temperature means slightly less clothing. Start early and exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days. Be consistent and you’ll feel more confident and healthy when the warm weather arrives.

Be as Good to Yourself as You are to Others      

Between work, relationships, friends and family, you can get pulled into several directions. It’s easy to get into a habit of being there for others. Without being conscious of it, others’ needs may come before your own. Make a conscious effort to treat yourself with an experience that makes you feel good. This could be a haircut or spa treatment. It’s not about the money; make a plan and understand that you are investing in yourself. Ultimately, it will help you to look and feel better, while you improve your self image.

Image Credit: Anna Shvets