The Power of Self-Image: How You See Yourself and Why It Matters

Improving my self-image was one of the first steps I made in my self development journey. I realized that how I saw myself shaped how others saw me. And how others saw me would have a bearing on the opportunities I would be granted in life and the relationships I would form. Self-image as defined by The Oxford dictionary, is “the idea one has of one’s abilities, appearance and personality”. I first came across the concept of self-image from Tonya Leigh, life coach and founder of the School of Self-Image, who breaks self-image down into three major components; mindset, style & surroundings. Here is what I’ve learnt so far on self-image and how to improve it.

Mindset

The first key to unlocking a self-image that propels you forward instead of one that holds you back, is developing a growth mindset. A term coined by Dr. Carol Dweck, professor at Stanford University, in her book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, a growth mindset is the belief that any ability or skill can be developed over time. It is the belief that anything you desire you can achieve because you can develop any skill you wish to acquire or any craft you wish to hone. In the words of Rutherford B. Hayes, “every expert was once a beginner”.

Perhaps it is your self-confidence you want to improve, your critical thinking skills you want to polish or your networking skills you want to build upon. Whatever the skill or competence you wish to enhance, the belief that it is possible for you, just as it was possible for those who inspire your journey, is what is most important. And believe it or not, this takes courage; the courage to do what scares you in the short term but will build certain mental muscles in the long-run, the courage to sometimes fail along the way and get back up stronger and the courage to try new things outside your comfort zone.

The most effective way to develop a growth mindset involves believing that it is possible to get good at something you are a mere beginner in, and then consistently practicing the skill you desire to develop. One thing to note is that a growth mindset is just as receptive to learning as it is expansive. And there is nothing that expands a mind more than reading and interacting with people from different backgrounds, who hold different beliefs and value systems from your own.

Style

Style is the next component of self-image. Not only does crafting your personal style make you feel more confident, but style is another way to visually represent who you are and where you are going. Various aspects of your style may include your dress and your manner. But why does style really matter? Style matters because it is one of the quickest ways to non-verbally communicate who you are to yourself as well as to the person across the room. The expression “dress for success” sums up this concept perfectly. Style is one of the best ways to boost our self-image and attract our success.

Surroundings

Lastly, are our surroundings. Our surroundings are constantly reflecting back to us who we are. Make it a goal to create a refreshing space for yourself. Ask yourself, “What kind of space would my highest self want to live or work in?” Perhaps you envision a vase of fresh flowers on your desk or a collection of awards and certificates mounted on your wall. Regardless of what your dream space looks like, make an effort to start creating it today. Environment design continually shapes how we perceive ourselves and it is important to leverage this notion early on in our self-development journeys.

In conclusion, self-image is the lens through which we see ourselves. A positive self-image can be crafted by developing a growth mindset, defining your personal style, and intentionally designing an environment that mirrors who you are and where you are headed. Doing these three things will greatly maximize your odds of success at work, school and life as a whole.

Article by Nicole Wacuka, Bachelor of Financial Services, SBS