Just as companies have brands we all have a self-concept. It’s that sense of who we are that comes to mind if we stop to reflect on ourselves. It’s important not to take self-concepts too seriously as they are only thought patterns and may be incorrect, out of date or at best just a limited representation of who we really are and what we’re capable of. They can however be upgraded and used usefully for positive purposes.
Action: A well-optimised self-concept isn’t based on who we were but is more orientated towards who we are today and a little forward to how we want to be. If it’s too far ahead it creates a gap which can make us feel lacking. If it’s too restrictive then it doesn’t leave room for growth. It can be fun to customise your self-concept by asking yourself, when you think of a realistic but ideal version of your life; where you want to be, what you want to be doing, who you want to be doing it with, how you appear, your facial expression, the feelings you are feeling and the attitude you are taking. Focusing on this regularly can be helpful as a reminder and you might also like to draw a picture or create a mood board that represents your self-concept.