What can influence self-image?
Self-image is constantly evolving. It can be shaped by a combination of factors, both internal and external, and influenced by different elements around us.
Social media
Beauty standards conveyed by social media, exposing us to idealized and often unrealistic images of life and beauty, can influence how we perceive ourselves and evaluate our own appearance.
Comparison, social and cultural pressure
Cultural and social expectations about gender roles, study or career choices, comparisons with others or the importance we place on measuring ourselves against social models, celebrities, friends or classmates can influence self-esteem and self-image, sometimes leading to feelings of insecurity and dissatisfaction with our own lives and appearance.
Peer pressure
Friends and classmates can have a significant influence on self-image. Conformity to group norms and the desire to be accepted by peers can lead to changes in how we behave and present ourselves.
Family relationships
Positive support and communication with family members can build self-confidence, while a conflictual or critical family environment can negatively impact self-esteem.
School experiences
Academic success or failure can influence self-perceptions in terms of intelligence, skills, and abilities. Relationships with teachers and peers at school can also play a role in building self-esteem.
Networks are a showcase where our lives are in the spotlight, exposed to the gaze of others. They can facilitate relationships, bring inspiration, be moments of entertainment. However, when their use is excessive and their influence affects self-image and/or self-esteem, taking a step back may be necessary.
This classic tale by Andersen tells the story of a swan who considers himself ugly because he does not look like ducklings. Eventually, he discovers his true identity and realizes his inner beauty.
The Ugly Duckling
This Brothers Grimm story features a magic mirror that shows people their own inner image, revealing that inner beauty is more important than outward appearance.
The Magic Mirror
Andersen writes the story of a songbird who is born without a beautiful appearance but whose song is so beautiful that he ends up being appreciated for his voice and not for his beauty.
The Nightingale
This famous story tells of how Beauty sees beyond the Beast's appearance to discover the goodness that lies beneath.
Beauty and the Beast
In this Aesop fable, a little mouse saves the life of a mighty lion. She discovers that even the biggest ones need help sometimes, regardless of their size or strength.
The Lion and the Mouse
This fable by Andersen highlights how vanity and fear of being different can affect one's perception of self and reality.
The Emperor's New Clothes
This Indian tale tells the story of a jar used to carry water from the river to the master's house. The jar was cracked and lost water along the way, and felt useless because it could not do its job properly. However, its master reminded it that by losing water along the way, it allowed flowers to grow. This story highlights how those who feel imperfect or damaged can still have a positive impact, and that it is possible to find one's own worth, even with imperfections.
The Damaged Jar
In this fable by Jean de la Fontaine, a frog meets an ox and begins to envy his imposing size. He wishes to become as big as him and tries to inflate his own body to reach that size. Unfortunately, he bursts trying to become something he is not. The moral of this fable is that everyone must accept their own nature and not try to become something they are not. It warns against envy and the desire to appear bigger or more important than one really is.
The Frog and the Ox
Tales and fables have always served to explore the complexities of human nature and to convey moral lessons. At the heart of these timeless tales evolve fascinating characters and animals, whose destinies are often woven around universal themes. Self-image, appearance and relationships with others are frequently addressed by storytellers. These timeless stories remain an inexhaustible source of inspiration, inviting reflection on self-perception within society.
Advice
Filters can be fun, but remember that digital perfection is not reality.
Stay true to yourself! No need to conform to other people's norms or standards. Share your true "self" online.
Beware of filters and excessive retouching
Set limits on the time you spend on social media. Balancing online and offline life is important.
Manage your time online
Use social media to share your passions, talents, and accomplishments, to learn, expand your horizons, and connect with like-minded people. Follow accounts that promote diversity, curiosity, creativity, engagement, and body positivity. Avoid accounts that reinforce unattainable standards.
Promote positive use
Be respectful of others, avoid cyberbullying and negative comments. Build a positive space on social media. Interact with others in a kind way. Words and actions online have a real impact on our own emotions and those of others.
Show respect online
Learn to distinguish between what is authentic and what is not. Remember that online life is only one part of your existence.
Separate reality from virtuality
Before you post something online, ask yourself how it might affect you and how it might be perceived by others. Don't share sensitive or personal information online. Protect your privacy. Once it's posted, it can be difficult to take it back.
Think before you post
Don’t automatically accept all friend or follow requests. Surround yourself online with people who support you and inspire you in a positive way. Social media friendships can be meaningful, but don’t forget to maintain in-person relationships.
Be selective in your friends and subscriptions
Avoid constantly comparing yourself to other people online. Remember that everyone is unique and that other people's achievements don't diminish yours.
Be aware of excessive comparison
Your well-being is paramount. Take breaks when necessary.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by issues related to cyberbullying, online anxiety, or other concerns, don't be afraid to seek help from someone you trust or a professional.
Prioritize your mental well-being
Tales & Fables
They are talking about it
#MOICMOI is a global approach to promoting the mental health of adolescents based on psychosocial skills.
It aims to support the development of their identity by promoting a positive self-image and healthy self-esteem with a focus on body image .
Have beauty standards become obsolete?
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