Self Image Activities
In a world rife with pressures and stress, it can often be difficult to hold on to your true identity. Many people suffer from low self-esteem. Although it is a problem that can trail a person for their entire life, there are some great activities you can do by yourself or with friends to build yourself up if you’re having a particularly low day.
There is no reason to suffer from low self-image when each person has something new and beautiful to bring to the world.
Quotes
Search online or in quotation books for your favorite quotes that build up your self esteem. Tape the quotes to the mirror and look at them each day.
Write Down Your Strengths
Although it may seem “cheesy,” this activity can really build you up. Write down at least 10 of your strengths and 10 things you like about yourself. In addition, make a list of things you have accomplished in your life. It’s easy to get down on yourself, but sometimes putting it on paper helps you see the big picture.
Small Group Activities
In a small group, have each person go around and name a positive attribute or something she admires about each person in the group. You can limit it to one in the interest of time, or have her take as long as she likes. It can really help your self-esteem to hear someone else’s positive views about you and your accomplishments and attributes.
Another take on the exercise is to have each person write his name on a piece of paper. Pass the paper around and have everyone write a compliment or something they admire about that person on the paper. At the end of the session, have each person retrieve his own paper and read the compliments.
Daily Affirmations
Make a list of daily affirmations and read them aloud each day. Examples include “I am beautiful,” “I am worthy,” “I am loving and loved.” Tape them to your fridge or mirror to make sure you see them every day, or make a point to read them aloud at least once a day.
Tracing Your Body
This exercise is particularly helpful for those needing a boost in the body image department. Lie down on a piece of long butcher paper (long and wide enough to fit your whole body). Have a friend trace your body with a marker.
You can draw clothes and jewelry and a face or leave it blank. Write on your body things you like about yourself and body parts you like. If you have trouble thinking about body parts you like physically, you can think about ways those body parts help you in your everyday life, such as legs that help you walk and arms that help you lift your baby.
See a Therapist
If you or your family feel your poor self-image has gotten out of hand, it is important to see a professional therapist to talk about and to process your feelings. This is especially important if you suspect you may be suffering from depression.
There is no need to go through life feeling terrible about yourself and guilty for no reason. Life is short and it is best when enjoyed from within your own skin. You could also join a therapy group.
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