How to Improve Your “I” Sight

What do you think about yourself? Is your self image over inflated, deflated or have you found a healthy, happy balance? What you think about yourself can impact your life, your ability to function, your career, your relationships and even how you take care of yourself. Most people think that a self image problem is a lack of self worth. That may be true for some; others, however, think a little too much of themselves. Take some time to sit down with a pen and paper and answer these questions. No one but you is going to read your answers, so be honest. You may be surprised at what you learn about yourself and your self image.

Answer the following questions.

Do you have an answer for everything? Why?

Do you scoff at or ridicule people that don’t measure up to your standards? Why?

Do you wish you could be more like someone you admire? Why?

Do you diminish your contributions to family, friends and colleagues? Why?

Do you dwell on your accomplishments and tout them on a continual basis? Why?

Do you dwell on your failures, and think about them constantly? Why?

Do you avoid looking in the mirror? Why?

Do you avoid conversations or expressing your point of view and opinions? Why?

Do you dominate conversations? Why?

Do you hide from the world? Why?

Do you walk with your head down, hold it level or point your nose up in the air? Why?

Do you avoid eye contact? Why?

Do you shun people whom you consider to be less worthy than yourself?

Do you feel as if your opinions are worthless? Why?

Do you believe that you are always right? Why?

Can you admit when you are wrong? Why?

Do you misrepresent your intelligence or expertise? Why?

Do you publicly criticize others? Why?

Do you publicly offer suggestions that others should follow to improve themselves? Why?

Identify your problem areas. If you are a know it all, admit it. This may be the reason you don’t have successful personal relationships. You may be coming off as extremely arrogant. Do you dwell in self pity? Again, this could affect your relationships.

Write an honest personal evaluation about your self image, where you think you need improvement and why.

Start taking action to improve your self image. If your self image is a little too positive, it may need a bit of deflating. Sometimes it is best to keep your opinions to yourself. Other times, if the situation warrants it, you should share your criticisms and suggestions privately. Understand that you are not an expert in everything. Even if you are an expert in a certain field, it doesn’t mean you are always right. If you feel you have a negative self image, start making changes that will make you feel better about yourself. You may choose to take a few classes. You may need to force yourself to take part in conversations and overcome your shyness.

Consider talking with a counselor if the changes you want to make seem impossible or overwhelming. A therapist will be able to help you understand your self image, and how to improve it one step at a time.