How to Build Healthier Self Image

Self-image is how we see ourselves, shaping our feelings about our bodies, abilities, and self-worth.

It goes far beyond physical appearance, it's about how we perceive ourselves.

In today’s world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others or measuring our worth against unrealistic standards of what we think we “should” be.

Social media, societal pressures, and our own inner critic can often distort our perception, making us feel like we’re not good enough or constantly lacking in some way.

These negative thought patterns can make us question our abilities, causing us to hold back, avoid taking action, and even give up on things we truly care about because we don’t believe we’re capable. This can pull us further away from the goals we want to achieve.

But the good news is that we can change this.

Developing a positive self-image is essential for showing up in life with confidence and embracing who you are. It takes time and effort, but like any skill, building a healthier self-image is something you can practice and improve over time.

Here are a few ways to start cultivating a more positive self-image:

Practise gratitude

Begin each day by focusing on something you appreciate about yourself.

It could be your health, a personal strength, or progress you’ve made in a specific area of life.

This simple habit can shift your mind to look for what you already have and are appreciative of, rather than what you are not or what you lack. What you focus on grows!

Challenge negative thoughts and cycles

When negative thoughts about yourself come up, pause and question them. Are they based on fact, or are they a result of unrealistic expectations or harsh self-criticism?

Often, we are much harder on ourselves than others are, and this internal bullying isn’t likely to encourage us to take positive action.

Learning to challenge these thoughts and see things from a more balanced perspective is a powerful habit that can change how you feel about yourself over time.

Celebrate progress

Acknowledge every step forward, no matter how small. Whether it’s a personal best at the gym, showing up for a workout, or choosing a healthy meal, these seemingly minor actions matter.

Recognising them not only reinforces the behaviour but also creates a “reward loop” in your brain. This positive reinforcement helps build momentum, making it easier to stay consistent in your efforts and encouraging continued growth.

Each of these mental shifts can have a significant impact on how you perceive yourself and can gradually help build a more positive self-image.

By consistently working on improving how you see yourself, you’ll be more likely to step forward into behaviours that promote growth, health, and self-care.

The result is not only a healthier relationship with yourself but also greater confidence and fulfilment in all areas of life!