Whether we like it or not, whether we want to or not we communicate messages about ourselves. It is therefore a good idea to step back and take a look at ourselves, our perception, our image, what messages we subconsciously communicate to others around us. A conscious effort to ‘consider’ ourselves outside & inside will not only offer us insights but improve our relationships.
Is there a ‘real’ ‘core’ ‘true’
self? Or is it who we ‘think’ we are? Or is it actually our ‘self image’ (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-image),
made up of childhood conditioning.
Self image is formed due to our
experiences largely during our growing up years. A child is told about
him/herself based on someone else’s compass or perception – parents, relatives,
friends, teachers, and societal norms. The child forms an image of his/her
personality and carries it through life. Reactions, behaviour, attitude,
actions, self worth, self confidence stem from self image. For example, a
person may be an introvert as a result of him/her being told in growing up
years he/she is overweight or underweight or too tall or too short or not so
good looking.
At some point in our lives we all
decide to take a look at ourselves. The decision for internal introspection and
the actions we take for it are itself a positive step towards awarding
ourselves self worth. The paths we explore could involve studying a new
philosophy, a religion, exploring deep meditation, taking on a guru, physically
working out, adopting a new hobby or getting more adventurous and taking more
risks. The moment we decide to invest in ourselves we value ourselves more.
This becomes a turning point in our growth journey.
I’ve had several interesting
discussions on Image Management with a variety of different responses. Some
think it’s an outwardly change and there is no reason for presenting a
different image than who we are. Its artificial and a less ‘intellectual’
activity.
Is it really an outwardly change?
Think about it.
Like I mentioned earlier, we feel
a ‘need’ to change. Once we’ve stopped blaming our circumstances, luck and
others for not moving in life or for not having what others have, we start
looking into ourselves. Initially reluctantly. We are hesitant to admit we need
to be worked upon. We are hesitant to get out of our comfort zone. However,
those who embrace internal growth & change, those who are more self aware,
are the ones who are generally happier. Image Management is actually
rediscovering, recognising and accepting who you are. It is being in sync with
your personality and projecting who you really are. There is no right or wrong. We are all
different from each other.
Image Management is evaluating
and enhancing our image and how others perceive us and therefore respond to us.
It is about creating first impressions and more importantly an impactful presence.
Image Enhancement includes an understanding of ourselves, our tastes, our likes
& dislikes, our personality, our roles & goals. It includes improving appearance,
body language, and etiquette. It is about presenting an authentic image of ourselves.
The one you are most comfortable with.
We need to introspect before we
understand our personality type. The clothes we choose to wear reflect our
values. Our mannerisms & etiquette reflect the respect we have for ourselves
and others. The colours we decide to wear reflect our mood. Our body language
and tone of voice can make or break a situation. Everything about us gives out
a signal that is received by people around us.
If you are fine with the way you
are, great! If you feel the need to think about yourself more consciously then let
go of your fears. See your life change. Go ahead, do it. Press Refresh.