I’ve been conducting an experiment lately, asking people what their favourite feature is. Almost universally the response goes something like this – “Well, it’s definitely not my nose, and I don’t like my eyebrows and my (fill in body part) is too (big, small, round, flat, uneven…).” It is a rare person that answers the question in the affirmative. While this might just be self-deprecating Canadian modesty, I think it goes much deeper. Most of us don’t really appreciate the beauty of the body we inhabit. We easily see the perceived flaws, which erodes away at our confidence, leaving us believing we are unattractive, ugly even. We start to present ourselves that way, creating something of a self-fulfilling prophesy leading to some very unhealthy views of our own self-worth and value.

Here’s another way to look at it. Have you ever spent time with someone who becomes better and better looking as you spend more and more time with them? And have you asked yourself why? They didn’t change but your perception of them did. I believe this has everything to do with their confidence, the way they perceive themselves. They have the same number of “flaws” as the rest of us, but they are comfortable with that because they understand that they are “fearfully and wonderfully made”. We’re not talking about vanity here or acting like some modern-day Narcissus, just a healthy appreciation that they are a beautiful creation, carrying a spark of divinity that gives them value and worth.

Today’s challenge then – recognize that you are beautiful. Look in the mirror and say it out loud “I am beautiful”. Then go out and act like it. When someone compliments you, receive it with a confident “thank you”. And then go out and treat everyone else like they are beautiful too!

Have a great day!

Cheers,

Tris