SELF-IMAGE

SELF-IMAGE

Self-image can be defined as self-worth; a picture of what kind of person a man perceived himself to be (Maxwell Maltz). Throughout history it has been seen as a determinant or one of the biggest factors that determines success or otherwise of a person. Just as it was written on the emerald tablet 3000BC: as above so below, as within so without; so it is up till now.

How then is this image formed? Do we have negatives? If yes, how do pictures develop from negatives? First, the shape of a mould determines the shape of the product. A mould is metallurgical equipment, having the shape of the intended product and is used to cast (produce) the final or desired product.

Often times the parents or custodian of a child moulds or contribute in a significant measure the character of a child due to the image(s) that is embossed over the course of his/her lifetime. Research conducted on prison inmates observed that 95% of prisoners have been condemned from their childhood by their custodian or parent. Some have heard said to them these words:  thief, armed robber, victim, you cannot turn out well with the way you are behaving etc. These people taught they will correct their mild juvenile delinquencies by such words or been hash on them to an extent that the child security is threatened. These endanger self-hatred, and in a bid to win back the love they supposed to be given unconditionally from their parents make them develop a try-to-please-everybody attitude. This attitude cannot withstand or overcome life challenges or peer pressures.

The book a man read are catapult that propels him speedily in the direction of the contents of such books. If he reads good books he moves faster to become a good leader; this is an I-can-do-it image. If he reads bad ones, he is a threat to his society (John Maxwell).

Association creates character; the Book says evil communication corrupts good habit. The belief(s) ideas of what kind of person you are as seen by your friends go a long way to paint your perception of what sort of person you are. The interesting thing is that you become who you think you are.

Lastly, as a man ‘grows through life’, his thought and actions are what finally shapes this picture he carries. In other words he can change or alter this image to suite the life he wants. He does this by reading books consistent with his desired life, associating with people already living such life and then acting the part or life the he wanted. According to Earl Nightingale, if you want to change an attitude starts by acting the life or part you imagined or desired.

Catch you later.