Estimated reading time: 4 minutes, 32 seconds
Your worth isn’t determined by how clearly you can see it.
Sometimes the problem isn’t you.
Sometimes the problem is the mirror you’re using.
Let’s look at today’s visual. I first drew this in 2022, and it’s just as true today as it was back then:
The message is simple but powerful: when we struggle to see beauty or value in ourselves, the issue is not our worth - it’s the lens through which we’re looking at it.
Our thoughts, past experiences, and internal narratives can become cracked mirrors that distort how we see ourselves.
Sometimes the most important change we can make isn’t changing who we are, but changing how we see ourselves.
Let’s dive into today’s Saying:
“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.”
Jung reminds us that life isn’t about becoming someone else.
It’s about discovering and embracing the person we were always meant to be, and it starts with adopting a new, healthier perspective.
Many people walk through life believing they are somehow lacking.
Not talented enough.
Not attractive enough.
Not successful enough.
Not enough.
And if you’re reading this thinking “That’s me…”, then don’t worry - you’re not alone.
We live in a society that endlessly tries to ram these things down our throats, right? Spend 5 seconds on social media and you’ll already see 5 people trying to present themselves as better than you.
Often these negative beliefs of ourselves are formed by distorted mirrors - past criticism, comparison, rejection, or unrealistic expectations.
Over time, those experiences shape the way we see ourselves.
But just because a mirror shows something, that doesn’t mean it’s telling the truth.
Here are 3 ways to start finding a better mirror:
Notice the voice you listen to most
Is it encouraging, or constantly critical?
The voice in your head often becomes the mirror through which you see yourself.
Consider writing out the things you’re thinking to see if you still believe them.
Surround yourself with people who reflect your worth
Healthy relationships help us see things we struggle to see alone.
Sometimes others recognise our strengths long before we do.
Focus on contribution rather than comparison
Your value doesn’t come from being better than someone else.
It often comes from the unique way you can contribute to the world.
The world doesn’t need a different version of you.
It needs the one that already exists; the you that you were always meant to be.
Sometimes all that’s required is a better mirror.
Let’s dive deeper into today’s wisdom with these 3 journal prompts:
What beliefs about myself might be coming from a distorted mirror?
Who in my life reflects my value back to me in healthy ways?
How might my life change if I started believing I have something meaningful to offer?
Today’s resource is The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown.
This book explores the power of embracing who we are rather than striving for an impossible ideal.
Brené Brown’s research on vulnerability and self-worth offers a helpful reminder that our imperfections don’t diminish our value, but they’re part of what makes us human.
Consider supporting your friendly local bookstore, or find where to purchase it online here:
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Catch you in the next issue!
Thanks,
Michael