Confidence and Recognizing the Beauty in All of Us

Confidence. It’s something we all aspire to as its presence allows us the freedom to pursue and realize our dreams and live our best lives.

Recently we had an opportunity to re-watch the Dove “Real Beauty Sketches” ad that went viral back in 2013. We were instantly reminded of how closely aligned its message is to that which we have been teaching for years—and that is the importance of the role that confidence plays in how we present ourselves to the world and how others perceive us.

This video is a must-see for understanding how we as women operate—and it’s going to blow your mind.

Having now watched the video, you’ll no doubt realize that there is a direct correlation between how you feel about how you look and the amount of confidence you possess as a result. As the various participants in the ad gazed upon the sketches drawn of them based on their own descriptions, the feelings of shock and sadness were tangible. It became immediately apparent that they had focused solely on their perceived flaws.

That sentiment was further magnified upon viewing the sketches drawn of them based on the descriptions of others—and there was a glaring disconnect. The participants—all women—had failed to see the beauty in themselves that others had seen in them—even during the briefest of meetings. How sad and limiting is that?

That sentiment was further magnified upon viewing the sketches drawn of them based on the descriptions of others—and there was a glaring disconnect.

The truth is, every single one of us has a myriad of beautiful qualities. Still, unless we recognize them, we run the risk of seriously limiting our opportunities and our potential.

At Be Iconic Style, we’ve seen this correlation in action, time, and time again, over the years. When our clients look great, they feel great, and they exude the kind of confidence that leads to empowerment as they take on new challenges and are rewarded for their accomplishments. Honestly, this is something for which we at Be Iconic Style live.

So, before we close, we’re going to issue a challenge: we’d like you to think about the words you would use to describe yourself to someone who couldn’t see you. What type of mental image are you projecting? Next, we want you to challenge and silence your inner critic. Focus on your positive qualities and think about how you’d like others to see and describe you. It may seem like a silly exercise, but we promise that you will start noticing a difference in how people treat you because you have chosen to treat yourself with the love and admiration you so deserve.

Here’s to recognizing the beauty in all of us. And now, ladies, it’s time to change the world!