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Building a Positive Self-image Leads to Happiness

Khushboo Motihar
10 Apr 2023

Having a positive self-image is essential for leading a happy and fulfilling life. It’s all about how you perceive yourself, what you believe about your abilities and how confident you feel in any given situation. When we have a healthy sense of self-worth it gives us the courage to take risks and pursue our dreams without fear of failure or rejection. But developing this kind of inner strength doesn't happen overnight – it takes time and effort to build up our confidence levels and create an image that reflects who we truly are on the inside. 

But first…

What is an Inferiority Complex?

The American Psychological Association defines an inadequacy complex or inferiority complex as, "a basic feeling of inadequacy and insecurity, deriving from actual or imagined physical or psychological deficiency, that may result in behavioral expression ranging from the withdrawal of immobilizing timidity to the overcompensation of excessive competition and aggression."

You may feel like you will never be able to reach your full potential or no matter how hard you work you will never feel satisfied with yourself. 

Recent studies have revealed 52% of personality and self-esteem which impact your overall self-image are inherited; the remaining portion can be attributed to environmental influences. These include family, friends and other relationships, as well as our daily experiences. Building a positive self-image is not an easy task, however, it is possible with the right techniques and attitude.

If you are looking for ways to start building a healthier, more positive image of yourself, Here are 10 tips that can help get you started on your journey towards greater self-acceptance.

1. Celebrate Your Successes

Whether it’s small accomplishments like getting out of bed on time or big wins like landing a promotion at work, it’s important to recognize and celebrate the successes in your life. Acknowledge your accomplishments and give yourself credit for what you do right.

2. Let Go of Comparison

Comparing yourself to others can be damaging to your self-image. Instead, focus on what makes you unique and special. A growth mindset can help you to focus on the progress you are making and appreciate your individual strengths.

3. Set the Right Expectations

It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you don't reach your goals right away. It is important to recognize the effort you put into trying and success isn't always a straight line.

4. Surround Yourself with Positive People

Negative people can be draining both physically and mentally, so try to surround yourself with people who encourage you rather than discourage you. Spend more time with those who lift up your spirits and make you feel good about yourself.

5. Find Mentors

Having mentors is an invaluable asset when it comes to boosting your self-esteem and confidence levels. Mentors can provide words of encouragement or act as a sounding board when times get tough—they are invaluable resources when trying to build up your self-image.

6. Focus on Personal Growth

Personal growth is one key way in which you can increase your self-confidence and develop a healthier view of yourself over time. Make it a goal every day to learn something new or explore something that interests you—it doesn't have to be anything "big," just take small steps each day towards personal growth.

7. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude helps us appreciate the things we have without comparing them to what others might have (or don't). Start each morning by writing down five things you are grateful for—it will help put things into perspective throughout the day.

8. Be Kinder

Being kinder not only helps those around us but also ourselves as well; kindness begets kindness after all! Try being kinder not just towards others but also towards yourself—be gentle with yourself when mistakes happen or if something doesn’t go according to plan.

9. Always Ask for Help

No one is perfect, so don't be afraid or ashamed to reach out for help if needed—whether it's professional help or simply someone close who can lend an ear during tough times—asking for help shows strength rather than weakness, so don't hesitate if needed.

10 . Love Yourself

Last but not least is learning how to love oneself unconditionally; this means being able to accept oneself just as they are—flaws included—and learning how to cultivate both inner peace and outer joy from within regardless of external circumstances (elevating our spirit rather than letting our spirit become weighed down by life events).  

Building a positive self-image takes time and effort but these ten tips should serve as a starting point for anyone looking for ways in which they can start developing stronger feelings about themselves and their worth. Everyone deserves happiness and joy in their lives, so take the time to invest in yourself and build a healthy, positive image of yourself—you won't regret it. 

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