As of late, it seems that television characters, who by classical definition have been designated as nerdy or overall “less than the ideal person,” have embodied a new self-love mentality that would never have been a thought a decade ago—and audiences love them. The first example that comes to mind is Tina Belcher from “Bob’s Burgers.”
Tina is by no means the most popular girl in school and isn’t by society’s standards (even though she’s a cartoon) the most attractive. She’s an awkward teenager who hasn’t yet “blossomed” and probably never will. Regardless, Tina owns who she is and defines herself as a “smart, strong, sensual woman.” That kind of confidence carries over to the viewers and, in turn, makes us love this character.
On the whole, we have entered a golden era for self-image. We’ve become more outwardly critical of television shows, movies and songs that build up the unrealistic ideal for both men and women, more than our parents’ generation ever seemed to.
While this new mindfulness is becoming easier to find, our individual self-esteem may not be following suit as quickly, and understandably so. It’s easier to vocalize another person’s inner and outer awesomeness than it is to vocalize our own.
There is a secret to finding and really believing that you are truly and utterly amazing, and it’s a lot easier than you think: fake it ‘til you make it.
Now, that sounds kind of vague and somewhat silly, but it’s a self-talk technique that can actually help improve your view of yourself and, even more so, improve your views of others.
Telling yourself everyday that you basically are the most incredible person on the planet and that others are privileged to even know you may be hard to say seriously. However, over time, this kind of thinking (so long as it doesn’t turn into outward arrogance) can become a reality rather than just a silly mantra you say to yourself.
After you read this, give yourself a pat on the back and a “yas queen” (males included), because you really are a gem and a half, and you need to believe it.
