With every great building and work of architecture there is a strong foundation and framework that holds it up. We too must first have a solid foundation that will support our dreams and aspirations before we will ever truly be sturdy.

Our self-image is the bedrock of our goals and future success.

Developing a healthier self-image can improve relationships, lead us to set our sights on greater things, and help us feel confident with who we are.

By improving your self-image you will find yourself more durable and well-built when times get tough.

Here are a few suggestions for improving your self-image.

Read biographies of successful and confident people. Learning about successful people whom you admire and respect can offer wonderful insight into what it takes to be successful.

Their stories can show you how they were able to develop a positive self-image, and you will probably discover they endured some trials and tribulations as they developed into the person they are today.

Start smiling and standing tall. Our body language has a major impact on the way we feel about ourselves. Pay attention to your posture and how you are presenting yourself. Put a smile on your face and make eye contact. This will immediately improve your self-image.

If smiling doesn’t come naturally, practice by standing in front of the mirror and putting the biggest most exaggerated smile on your face possible. Then tone it down to a nice natural smile. This will get your face muscles comfortable smiling.

Do something for someone else. I have mentioned many times on this blog the benefits that come from doing something kind for someone else. We all focus on ourselves so often we forget how much of a positive impact we can have on others. Start putting others first and you will see an amazing response in how they treat you and how you feel about yourself.

Be careful who you associate with. If there is one thing that can either hold us back or move us ahead it’s who we spend time and associate with. By no means am I implying that you should assume you’re better or too good for others, but simply consider who inspires and motivates you to be a better person. Spend time with these people and your self-image will soar.

Make a list of your positive qualities. We all have strengths and weaknesses, and most people aren’t aware of their full range of talents and capabilities. Take an honest inventory of what you’re skills and positive qualities are, as well as what challenges and areas of improvement you deem necessary.

We can focus on our strengths to get us ahead and can work on weaknesses so we don’t fall behind. They are both valuable to improving our self-image.

Make a list of you victories. One of the best ways to boost confidence and self-trust is to focus on past accomplishments. It can be easy to neglect our successes and focus on all the mistakes and failures we have experienced. When you’re feeling a little down think back or refer to a list of all the accomplishments and proud moments in your life.

Improving your self-image takes some personal understanding and a willingness to acknowledge some unhealthy patterns in your life. If you are ready to take a step in this positive direction, make the commitment to improving your self-image. Your will see benefits in all areas of your life.

Photo credit: notsogoodphotography

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Shake Off the Grind (July 20, 2011)

From Psych Central's website:
PsychCentral (July 20, 2011)

Mental Health Social (July 20, 2011)

Irene Becker (July 20, 2011)

Carolyn Anderson (July 20, 2011)

Carolina Aramburo (July 20, 2011)

M. Price-Mitchell (July 20, 2011)

M. Price-Mitchell (July 20, 2011)

From Psych Central's website:
PsychCentral (July 20, 2011)

    Last reviewed: 20 Jul 2011