Create Your Self-Portrait

Imagine that you have the assignment to create a self-portrait, how would you begin?  For me, that assignment would be totally intimidating as the extent of my fine art ability is the not so fine art of stick figures. But what if the assignment could be accomplished in your mind? 

 

Starting off,  you can envision yourself positively or negatively; the choice is yours. You could begin by looking in the mirror and decide to notice imperfections: too many wrinkles; too much extra weight; bad-hair day; or receding hairline…on and on. You could also look in the mirror and notice your sparkling eyes, lovely smile or handsome jawline…on and on.  But what about using your imagination and your instinctual creative mind to create your self-portrait?

 

You could close your eyes and create your self-portrait in any setting you wish, from a vacation spot, playing a sport, in a ballgown or hanging out in jeans…whatever shows your personality and spirit. Perhaps there is a certain milestone event or a memorable day in your life. Close your eyes and imagine that.

 

Creating a self-portrait in your mind is a way to enhance your self-awareness as you will notice what comes up for you. The idea is not to focus on how other people view you, or how you think they view you, but how you view yourself.  This will be a great guidepost as you create a confident and joyful image of yourself when you open your eyes and move forward in the world.

 

Linda Joy Walder