How to see what you really look like…
Written by Jenn Hand, Holistic Nutritionist, Board Certified Health Coach & Binge Eating Coach, NBC-HWC
In a world filled with filters, airbrushing, and curated images, it’s easy to lose sight of what we truly look like.
But beneath the layers of digital enhancement lies who you really are–the you that goes beyond the size of your physical self.
Here’s how you can cultivate a more compassionate and accurate perception of your appearance
1. Question the filters
Beauty filters and editing apps may promise perfection, but they often distort reality and promote unattainable standards.
Instead of relying on these digital alterations, challenge yourself to appreciate the raw and unfiltered beauty that exists within you. Remember that imperfections are what make you uniquely beautiful.
2. Work on extra kindness to yourself
Disliking photos of oneself can stem from a deep-seated sense of self-criticism and insecurity.
Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend. Remind yourself that you are worthy of love and acceptance exactly as you are, flaws and all.
3. Surround yourself with people and places that allow you to be YOU
To see a more accurate representation of yourself, seek out environments and situations where you feel comfortable and at ease.
Take notice of how you carry yourself and the genuine expressions that light up your face when you’re feeling joyful and confident. These authentic moments offer a truer reflection of your inner beauty than any filtered image ever could.
4. Learn to see yourself beyond your physical size
Cameras may capture only a single moment in time, but they cannot capture the depth and complexity of who you really are inside.
Instead of seeking validation from external sources, cultivate self-acceptance by acknowledging your worth beyond physical appearance. Your value lies in your kindness, compassion, and the impact you have on the world around you.
5. Celebrate you–flaws and all
One of my favorite mottos is “pretty good is perfect”.
Work to embrace the differences that make you stand out and celebrate your unique features and characteristics. When you learn to see yourself through a lens of love and acceptance, you’ll discover the beauty that has always existed within you.
In a society fixated on surface-level perfection, seeing what you really look like requires a shift in perspective—a willingness to peel back the layers of illusion and embrace the authenticity that lies beneath.
Common Questions
Can beauty filters and editing apps distort my self-perception?
Yes, beauty filters and editing apps can distort your self-perception by presenting an unrealistic and digital version of yourself.
Is there a psychological reason for disliking photos of oneself?
Disliking photos of oneself can stem from a variety of psychological factors, including low self-esteem, body image issues, and societal pressures to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. We are also super critical of our photos and can zoom in to scrutinize–so it makes us look “harder” at ourselves.
How can I see a more accurate representation of myself?
To see a more accurate representation of yourself, try to focus on accepting yourself as you are without relying solely on external validation. You are more than your body!
Why does my reflection in the mirror look different from my photos?
Differences in lighting, angles, and perspectives between mirrors and photos can contribute to discrepancies in how you perceive your appearance.
Do cameras capture what we really look like?
Cameras capture a two-dimensional image of a three-dimensional subject, often distorting proportions and features depending on factors like lens type, distance, and focal length.
Why do I look different in photos taken by others compared to selfies?
Variations in angles, lighting, and the level of control over the camera can result in differences in how you appear in photos taken by others compared to selfies, highlighting the importance of embracing your unique appearance regardless of how it’s captured.
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Schedule a 20-min CallAbout the Author:
Jenn Hand has been helping women like you become normal eaters since 2015.
She’s worked with thousands of women, helping them to balance their bodies, end bingeing, stop obsessing over food, and start feeling amazing again. As a board-certified health coach and holistic nutritionist, Jenn knows how to support you in making real positive changes that last.
Her articles have been published on Mind Body Green, Tiny Buddha, Thrive Global and other local and global media platforms. She’s the author of How to Be a Normal Eater and the creator of The Normal Eater’s Club program. Listen to Jenn’s advice and tips on the Cake Doesn’t Count Podcast, or read more of her articles for free on the Food Freedom Blog.
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