Jillian from “Biggest Loser” said something like, “He needs to figure out that the self-image he created for himself just isn’t true.” She was referring to a very young, obese contestant who was voted off the ranch Tuesday night. No doubt at all she was right about the young man.
Her statement, though, grabbed me and I began to consider my own self-image.
Have you ever gotten a message that who you are is not ok? I sure have. And for whatever the reason so many of us will take that message in and devour it until it becomes part of our identity. It can even sneak up on us … little things as well as really big important things. We begin to create a self-image that just isn’t true.
I have found that my message lately has been “it’s ok to be you.” It’s not just “ok”, it’s fabulous to be you. You are the only person in this entire universe who can be you, who can influence the way you do, who can bless the way you do. You can have the same job or “calling” in life as the next person but no one can do it like you because there is no one else like YOU.
You are unique. I am unique. Embrace your differences. Embrace all of those things that make you, you. I suggest even embracing your shortcomings rather than fighting them. It’s ok to have weaknesses. It’s what you do with them that count.
Learn to celebrate your strengths and manage your weaknesses.
The other day I noticed that I was berating myself because my fitness activity is not where it “should” be. Should be according to whom??
I took a step back and had an honest moment with myself. What I discovered was that winter is not my best time of year. I’m not competing (yet!). I am in a healthier state that I’ve been in years. I decided to embrace the situation. It’s ok! I’m ok! So instead of setting fitness goals that will go against my natural rhythm, I decided to set goals that will flow for me.
My goal for the remainder of the winter is to eat healthy and move my body every day. I am happy to maintain. Come spring I’ll set a lofty fitness goal and go for it with all I have.
What a relief! I could have remained stuck in that berating mode but instead I took steps that nurtured a positive self-image and self-esteem such as:
1. Notice your thoughts, feelings, and actions. What are they telling you?
2. Step back and have an honest and open moment with yourself.
3. Discover what you need.
4. Embrace yourself in a way that will create a positive flow of energy.
5. Set your goals accordingly and go with it!
I ask you …
Is the self-image you have created for yourself true?
Are you berating yourself over something that’s creating and/or supporting a negative self-image?
What changes can you make to turn that around?
This is a great reminder. I think we all forget that we are each unique and our shortcomings are just another part of who we are. I am learning to work with the things that make me quirky. I am also learning to laugh at myself! Thanks for this post!
I like the way you put things, Colleen … “learning to work with the things that make me quirky”. If you don’t mind I just might adopt that. I have plenty that makes me quirky ..lol Although I understand the definition of quirky, it has a fun ring to me. I tend to be too serious especially concerning my shortcomings. Quirkiness (as a way to redefine my shortcomings) and laughter sounds like something to strive for … at least for me. Thank you for sharing!
Shileen,
You are absolutely right…it’s fabulous to be you! We are each unique in our own right and should be proud of that!
Sometimes we all need reminders, thanks for mine!
I watch the biggest loser. Just reading between the lines of that show can be life changing. Our adult kids watch it, and they are learning from the show in all its aspects. I am on my journey to learn self love of myself. I am learning that the memories will always be there, but learning to tell yourself that you know better, and have became a good person will help. It just takes one step at a time.
I really needed to hear this today. I’m getting better at this learning to love myself stuff, but there are still days when I need reminders and a kick in the behind.
@Renee – I love what you said about the memories. I have a tendency to hold on way too tight to the memories, so thanks for this.
Renee’ & Lena, EFT is a great way to help defuse the emotional hold that memories can have on us. Lena, we all need a reminder from time to time. You’re not alone there! =)