Katie’s Multiple Body Images

 Behavioral psychologist know that people project different personalities in different situations. For instance, your personality is likely different around your parents and siblings than at your place of work. Katie discovered that her personalities change too, and the one she projects to herself tends to be self defeating.

Here is what Katie wrote last week:

I think most of us want to portray a particular image of ourselves.  I know that for me, I have a "professional" image that I like to keep intact throughout my workday.  Melded in that image is the "real me" - I have a particular style of working with employees, a particular style working with clients, a particular style of working on committees and so on.  While I have these style types, I am still "me". 

My personal values, my thoughts fit well together with my work, and I believe that the real "me" still shines through all the "professionalism."  I also know that I have a very large container of empathy and support for both my clients as well as my employees and freely share it with them and at home, I have a large container of support and cheerleading that I project to my husband and children.

However, when it comes down to my own container of empathy and support, it seems to be very limited.  I can be very critical of myself and find it difficult at times to look at the positives - however, this morning, I made a conscious decision to do just that.

I was enjoying the morning walk with my best walking companion, my large slobbery labrador, and taking in the sunrise and feeling grateful that I could benefit from a relatively healthy body, strong legs and feet  even if it doesn’t look perfect. I also was greatful for a healthy mind that could help me be at peace. 

I wish I could say that this type of thinking, of pausing in the moment, being aware and mindful of the moment is an easy habit that I've established, but it's not. I would like to work on this over the next few months as I think it is one of the keys to healthy living and lifestyle.

Can you relate to Katie’s story? Share your thoughts her in the comment section below.