Youth, beauty and body weight are first-world beauty problems that lurk in the back of the mind of every man or woman. From an early age, we are programmed to focus all of our attention on our appearance making us constantly think, talk, strategise, and fret about the way we look. It is no wonder that many suffer from the negative self-image.
By our teens, we have dropped enjoyable activities in favour of the beauty treadmill. We become fanatical about diets, jog religiously no matter the weather, and seek out the latest beauty or skincare trends. Some go as far as considering cosmetic surgery whether it is to improve some perceived imperfection like getting a butt lift or to hide the appearance of ageing. Yet with all this effort, there are some people who will never feel like they are good enough.
The negative self-image consists of three types; how you see yourself, how others see you or how you perceive others see you. It can be distorted by emotions, moods, early experiences and other influencing factors. Some might dismiss it as vanity but a negative self-image is a psychological problem that can deteriorate self-worth. Self-esteem is essential to personal validation and our ability to experience joy.
The danger lies when people undergo extreme makeovers in the pursuit of perceived perfection – from miracle diets to cosmetic surgery. Thankfully, there are some simple techniques that you can do today to break you out of your cycle.
How To Get Rid Of Negative Self Image
1. Let Go Of The Past
It is essential to let go of all those negative feelings and experiences from the past in order to move forward. Forgive those who have inflicted a negative self-image onto you, whether they did so purposely or not. People often say and do things as a result of how they are feeling about themselves. In most cases, whether they are aware of it or not, unhealthy individuals inflict their wounds upon us to salve their own pain. This can no longer paralyse you.
2. Live In the Present
When you can learn to let go of the past and live fully in the present, you are also growing. There are many other ways to learn to live in the present. Begin the process by taking a current inventory of your face and body.
i. Stand in front of a full-length mirror and scan your face and body. Note down what you are happy with.
ii. Next, make note of what you would like to change. Are these changes within your control? If so, decide how you can improve yourself. If your desired changes are out of your control, set aside time every day to tell yourself that you accept yourself for how you look and who you are.
iii. Take a look at your final list. What can you do right now that would make feel better about yourself? It could be a bubble bath, booking a facial, manicure or pedicure, or simply getting a full night’s sleep.
3. Stop Comparing Yourself To Others
Comparing yourself to others is a tendency that we all have but is actually necessary for astute reasoning.
It is productive if it influences you to emulate someone’s impressive style but it becomes dysfunctional when you label yourself as less than that person. Focus on what you have instead of obsessing on what you are lacking.
4. Quit Seeking Approval
It is always great to get approval from other people, but when it becomes a need rather than a want, this is when it gets dangerous. Be confident in yourself and in your values. While listening to people’s opinions is important, their view should not be more so than that of your own.
5. Wear The Right Clothes & Makeup
Start each day by taking some time out to decide what you are going to wear, and why you are going to wear it. How will you wear your makeup? Does it suit you? Or are you being influenced by the latest trend even if it does not show you in the most flattering light? Making the right makeup and wardrobe choices will influence your state of mind for the day.
6. Let It Go
If you just cannot get the frizz out of your hair, that spot on your forehead, or a bloated stomach from your last meal, just throw some hair product in your hair, conceal that spot as best you can, and wear something that is not too figure hugging.
A negative self-image can incredibly damage our mental and emotional well-being. It can impact our relationships, professional success, and overall quality of life. However, changing this narrative and cultivating a more positive and empowering self-image is possible. By challenging our negative thoughts and beliefs, practising self-care, and surrounding ourselves with positive influences, we can see ourselves in a new and more positive light.
Remember that change takes time and effort, but anyone can achieve a more positive self-image with dedication and perseverance. Let’s break free from negativity and embrace our unique strengths and qualities, for they make us truly special and worthy of love and acceptance.
