Exploring Self Image - How do We Overcome Days When We Feel UGLY

Self-Image: The way we see ourselves

Self-image is not a topic that we talk about enough. It directly ties into mental health and can affect someone greatly when feeling negative.

A Poor Self-Image:

Poor self-image may be the result of accumulated criticisms that the person collected as a child which have led to damaging their own view of themselves. Children in particular are vulnerable to accepting negative judgments from authority figures because they have yet to develop competency in evaluating such comments. Also, adolescents are highly targeted to suffer from poor body-image issues. Individuals who already exhibit a low sense of self-worth may be vulnerable to develop social disorders.

We live in a highly judgmental society, and we are faced with criticism all of the time. It could be in person or through a screen. Social media is littered with false narratives and unrealistic expectations, which really does damage to someone who is struggling with having good self-esteem.

Now, think of the children and young adults. I always say, “go back to your childhood”, and you will find so many answers to your “inner struggles”. If the negativity starts there, then it will carry on through to the teen years and into adulthood.

I know for myself, my past trauma and abuse brought me to a very dark place. As a teen I would look in the mirror and just cry. I saw this UGLY girl staring back at me who I thought was fat and beastly. (mind you I was 85 lbs. at age 13). I struggled deeply, not wanting to eat because I saw this distorted image of myself.

Now looking back, I know I was staring at “MY Trauma”, and that was what I was seeing, but during that time frame of life my brain was not registering it that way. This shows us how the mind truly works. A young child being ridiculed, made fun of or going through horrendous abuse, has an altered mindset. Everything inside the brain shifts, and we see a DISTORTED IMAGE of ourselves.

How do we overcome our UGLY days?

Again, I will say firmly and confidently - Go back to the beginning, and take the time to do the self work that is so necessary to get the answers that you need, and gain clarity. Once you start to see the reality of what has transpired in your life, your “self image” will change. Slowly you will see that “beastly” image change as your true self will start to replace that clouded view.

Redirecting your mindset takes alot of hard work and daily practice. You must be willing to allow yourself that time to work through all of the cobwebs inside your mind. This is the type of work that will shape you into the person you were always meant to be.

Your reflection in the mirror will change drastically, and your self-esteem will rise. There may still be days that you feel ugly, but the difference is that you have gained the tools to redirect those negative thoughts to positive ones.

What is your self-image saying to you and how will your nurture your inner child to gain a clear image of who you are?

We all have our stresses and struggles, but having a positive mindset shifts everything.

Are you ready to take that journey towards self awareness.

Food for thought!

Embrace the Journey,

God Bless

Lisa Zarcone - Author

Child & Mental Health Advocate - Public Speaker - Blogger - Social Media Influencer

The three types of self-images are:

1. Positive Self-Image: This involves a favorable view of oneself, recognizing strengths and potential, and feeling confident in one's abilities.

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2. Negative Self-Image: This type reflects a belief that one is unattractive or lacks abilities, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.

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3. Neutral/Actual Self-Image: This is a balanced view where one acknowledges both strengths and weaknesses, without judgment or idealization.

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   These types of self-image can significantly influence one's self-esteem and overall well-being.