5 Steps to an Effective and Authentic Self-Image
Your self-image is the way you view yourself. For instance, you might view yourself as a parent, a friend, someone intelligent yet impatient, or someone who’s middle-aged. However, what you need to remember is that
you are more than your career, gender, and age. In fact,
you are more than what others perceive you to be.
It might seem easier to live up to the expectations of others in the short term. But sadly, it may not work for you in the long term. Furthermore, it’s highly beneficial to align the following:
success, self-esteem, respect from others, and inner peace. This is because those that live with their values, beliefs, and attitudes misaligned suffer from anxiety, guilt, and shame.
How Do You Determine Your True Self?
Most of the time, the way the world perceives you isn’t who you truly are. But how do you determine your
true self? Here are some steps that you can follow in order to live life on your terms:
1. Identify your core values.
Do you have any values listed that aren’t really priorities for you? We often carry around perspectives instilled by our parents. Here’s a newsflash: they may have been wrong. Take the time building self-worth for yourself. Disregard what society says you should value. You’re
an individual.
An authentic self-image is one that is aligned with your values. By knowing your values, you’ll gain an understanding of what is important to you. Once you’re aware of your values,
you can build a self-image and life that are more meaningful and enjoyable.
To do so, make a list of your values. Create a long list and include everything that you think applies to you. Then, reduce your list to the ten values that are most important to you. You might struggle to narrow your list to just ten, but ten values are plenty.
2. Determine if you have any conflicts.
You might say that adventure and freedom are two of your most important values. However, what if you also strongly favor responsibility and security? Those values could be in conflict.
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When you’re faced with an inner conflict, you’re likely to shut down and do nothing. If you’ve ever been paralyzed while making a decision, it’s possible your values were in conflict. Think back to when you’ve struggled to make a decision and see if it’s true.
3. Create an action plan for each value.
For instance, one of
your values is frugality. An action plan that could deal with this is creating a budget and savings plan that incorporates that value. You might also plan to start clipping coupons, visit less expensive stores, and search for free entertainment options available on the weekends.
4. Make a list of activities you enjoy that align with your values.
For example, if generosity is a priority, you could find an enjoyable way to spend your time helping others. If health is a value you cherish, you could join a soccer team or a yoga class. Find your favorite sport and participate.
5. Evaluate yourself at the end of each day.
Think about the instances when you failed to live according to your values. Likewise, contemplate the times you were able to live according to your values and authentic self-image, particularly when doing so was challenging.
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Create an authentic self-image that is in alignment with your values. First, it is necessary to identify and choose your values. Next,
construct a life that allows you to live with those values consistently and thrive.
Authenticity eliminates many of the common emotional ailments in life, but it’s not always the easiest choice. Be bold enough to choose the ideal self you want to become and live accordingly. If you are able to do this, you will surely reap great benefits.
So, what are your values?
