Your self-image is a mental picture you have of yourself, shaped by your experiences, memories, beliefs, and how you think others perceive you. It is not necessarily an objective reflection of reality but rather a subjective perception influenced by internal and external factors

. How realistic is your self-image?

• Your self-image is as realistic as your perspective and attitude allow it to be. It is filtered through selective perception and memory, meaning you tend to recall experiences that confirm your existing beliefs about yourself more easily than those that contradict them

• Because of this selective bias, your self-image may not fully align with your actual abilities, traits, or how others truly see you. It can be overly negative or positive depending on these mental filters

• Self-image is dynamic and can change over time through reflection, feedback, and conscious effort. You can improve or adjust your self-image by challenging limiting beliefs and adopting healthier perspectives about yourself

• Your self-image includes various components such as your beliefs about your personality, appearance, capabilities, your ideal self (how you want to be), and the real self (how others see you). The "looking-glass self" concept highlights how your perception of others’ views influences your self-image

• Ultimately, your self-image is a representation, which may be influenced by social roles, physical attributes, and personal traits, but it is distinct from your deeper identity or essence, which is more constant and spiritual in nature

In summary, your self-image is a subjective construct that may not be fully realistic because it is shaped by selective perceptions and social feedback. However, it is flexible and can be improved to better reflect your true self and capabilities through intentional effort and self-awareness