People fix in their mind a photograph ofhow they see themselves, usually supported by characters who at some point in their lives have or had avery important influence. This representation operates in our subconscious and in psychology it is calledself-image.

In this context, we present the following article where we describewhat self-image means, how we can recognize it and how it is built.

What is self-image?

The self-imageis a photographthat is formed in the mind of the human beingand remains in our subconscious, which can represent the way in which we see ourselvesor want to see ourselves. The concept of self-image was first studied by psychologistAlfred Adler(1), who observed that thoughts about oneself can give rise to one’s own images. (2)

On the other hand, the concepts ofself-image, self-esteem and self-conceptare closely linked but clearly have their differences. Self-conceptrepresents an opinion of who we are, self-esteem is an emotionalassessment of how we feel andself-image is the reflection of how one looks.

Self-concept canaffect this self-imageand happens frequently when we look in the mirror one day and feel healthy and full of energy and others where we can feel losers.

You should know: Self-image is not only linked to physical appearance, it is also associated withideas, values, feelings or opinions.

How is self-image formed?

There are certain elements involvedin the formationof self-imageand that we mention below:

1. Part from childhood

The child from birth receives a lot of information, which is assimilating without discriminating what is good and what is bad. This is howthe first image that they form in his mind of him is that of his caregivers and then when he learns to watch television, for example, his self-image is reflected in some fictitious character.

Note: Early childhood education is very important in shaping the conduct and behavior of children.

2. It is produced based on their own perception and that of others

Another aspect that affects the formation of self-image is undoubtedly the perception of the human being itself. Therefore, it is necessary that our process of self-perception has matured and perform an adequate introspection.

To highlight: It also happens, and very particularly when the child has not formed value judgments , that the self-image is built by the influence of other people in their efforts, for example, to correct certain behaviors, as usually happens at school age.

3. The social context, culture and training are involved

Another element that intervenes in the formation of self-image is society, the cultural context and academic training, that is, the environment where one lives.

Note: The self-image that the individual reflects is born from what he observes and perceives on a daily basis.

4. Evolves over time

Something very dynamic and that stands out is that the self-image evolves over time, due to the circumstances observed and the experiences lived by the individual .

This happens, because as the human being evolves according to his interests, his perspective also changes and, in turn, causes updates regarding the image with which he feels identified.

How to develop a positive self-image?

People with a negative self-image tend to be manipulableand find it difficult to achieve their goals. For this reason, we give you some guidelines so that you can develop a positive self-image:

1. Recognize the qualities and defects

Self-acceptance is the attitude that human beings have to accept their defects and virtues in a coherent way, without judgments or reproaches and its objective is to become awarein a global and positive way. It is important then, to have a starting point and for this you must knowwho you are.

Important: By recognizing your qualities and virtues, your self-perception is working correctly and the value judgment you make about yourself will be adjusted to reality and consequently will allow you to develop a positive self-image.

2. Avoid comparing yourself to others

The particularity of the human being is that, that We are particularand we are somewhat different both physically and psychologically. That is why it would be somewhat vainto make comparisons , especially in relation to self-image, since the mind works and manifests itself differently between individuals.

Tip: Work on your individuality since it is yours, do not try to make copies of other people or characters, be creative and build a self-image that really identifies with your purposes.

3. Strengthen self-love

Loving yourself constitutes an Impenetrable Psychological Barrier against unhealthy comments and criticism. \

You should know: If you have enough spiritual strength and self- love , you ensure a solid and positive self-image that will surely lead you to success.

4. Take care of physical health

Fitness and health are important factorsin the process of developing a positive self-image. Our state of mind depends a lot onOur General Health and therefore if our health is deteriorated our self-image can be altered.

Important: Carry out periodic evaluations of your state of health, do physical activities in groups, practice meditation or yoga, as this will surely strengthen your self-image.

5. Set goals and objectives

A positive self-image reveals Organized People with well-established priorities, who work on achievable goals and objectives and who can measure their capabilities in any circumstance.

To stand out: Try then, even in the most everyday things, to set goals and objectives, contributing to the construction of a positive self -image .

Key Findings

  • The self-image is a mental photograph formed in the mind of the individual and stored in the subconscious.
  • Generally, this self -image is associated with a person or character who has had a decisive influence on the individual.
  • The image can be linked to the physical appearance, thoughts, values, feelings, or opinions of the person or character.
  • The self -image is formed from childhood and evolves according to the individual perceptive process of the human being.

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