Your Self-Image Is Affecting How Others See You

Have you ever noticed that certain people tend to act in specific ways when you’re feeling a certain way about yourself? For example, they tend to match your energy if you’re feeling down. Just the same as they would if you were feeling good and excited about yourself and life. This is not a coincidence; the nature of our self-image plays a role in interactions with others.

What Makes Up Self-Image?

Our self-image is quite complex, though to put it, it is closer to how you perceive yourself rather than how you are. This perception is drawn upon by several factors, including an evaluation of physical, psychological, intellectual, moral, and sexual aspects of self.

Within the dimension of self-image, there is the influence of other’s opinions. Not to mention, our perceptions of their opinions as well. This helps us understand how our self-image can be impacted by others, as well as how they perceive us ultimately.

Input-Output Cycle

The cycle of data that one’s self-image brings to relationship dynamics in our life is dependent on the status of it. If self-image is well maintained, consistent, and stable, most data concerning variability is placed on outside individuals. If self-image is changing, the same occurs, but with the confusion that the changing nature brings.

Another important factor of your self-image is the fact that you shape your reality by your perception. Therefore, you may interpret others’ actions as approving or disapproving based on your projections.

How to Influence Your Self-Image

So you might be wondering how you can hack your self-image so that you can control how others perceive you. Well, that’s not how it works, either. No matter what your perception and self-image equate to, there is never a guarantee that another person will agree or understand.

However, the essential matter is that you may be able to influence how others view you based on how you view yourself. But there is no faking it; you must genuinely evolve the way you see yourself. Some ways to overcome negative self-image are:

• Investigate your surroundings
• Become aware of your limiting beliefs
• Play up your strengths
• Be mindful of your diet, not just food
• Use affirmations
• Be kind to yourself
• Spend some alone time
• Stop comparing yourself to others

If you’re wondering whether or not you have a healthy self-image, you’re not alone. Self-image can change throughout life, and it’s not uncommon to want to—and be successful in influencing it for the better.