I’m looking in the mirror and don’t quite recognize the person staring back at me. I wonder how I got to this point, I don’t know myself anymore. I suppose perception is always changing. Each day, I feel different and I think different. And depending on that, my self-perception changes again. Just like the tide, it ebbs and flows; and just like the weather, it can be sunny one minute and stormy the next. I won’t let these things define who I am.

Does anyone else feel the pressure of getting older? Is it difficult for you? I am having a hard time with the concept of aging – and not just because of the physical pains associated with it. And I have scars from the cancer that will never go away. Unfortunately, I know I need to accept aging and accept my scars in order to be happy. Negative self-perceptions such as feeling old, ugly, and less valuable leads to low self-esteem which in turn negatively impacts our lives in every single aspect- from social circles to career ambitions. Self-perception affects me quite a bit. If you’re feeling like me, we need to strive to cultivate a more loving attitude towards ourselves, we give ourselves the opportunity to live happy and fulfilled lives despite any old age apprehensions we may have.

Our perception of ourselves affects our everyday lives in so many ways! We tell ourselves we don’t have enough or that we’re too old, too ugly, or something else that’s an exaggeration and untrue. But then, this negative self-talk can become a roadblock to success and well-being. It definitely has for me! We need to remember that in the end our inner dialogue has a big impact on how we live our lives. Everyone deserves to feel confident and love themselves, no matter what they perceive their flaws to be! Life is too short not to appreciate what you are truly capable of; even old dogs can learn new tricks!

Improving myself has always been important to me, and it’s something I strive to do every day. I think of myself as a “work in progress” – keeping myself open to learning new things. Learning is key when it comes to my self-improvement.  I can acquire new knowledge, skills and ways of thinking. I think as long as I keep trying, I will be okay.