Discussing self-concept

Self-concept is at the core of our experience of mental health. We engage in self-concept every day and it impacts how we process day-to-day experiences. Overly harsh judgments of ourselves or others, egotism, self-isolation,  perfectionism, all come from false understandings of ourselves and others, and this is often the source of challenging emotions. 

Where does our self-concept come from? Ask someone this question, and they will likely describe identity and personal attributes formed through relationship through family, role in society, culture, qualities relative to other people, tall or short). All this comes down to relationship. Relationship, and how we engage in relationship, is a key part of how we view ourselves. Relationship is at the foundation of our humanness/humanity.

How do we define humanness/humanity? Being human means we are body and soul. We have intellect and will, we have the ability to reason, and we have the power to make choices. Being human means we have shortcomings, failings, and weaknesses, but there is hope for us to grow and improve. Furthermore, being human means we have inherent dignity and worth no matter our circumstances or what we have done or failed to do. This dignity and worth does not go away and cannot be taken away by ourselves or other people. 

We are all equal in dignity and worth. Our dignity and worth comes from being made in the image of God. We are made from love and for love. We are not meant to be alone. We are made for relationship with each other and with God. We all have purpose. We each have a personal responsibility to grow and improve, and fulfill our purpose.

Respect your dignity/worth and that of other people.

Empathy is essential for relationship.

Accept that we are human and make mistakes.

Courage helps us make good choices.

Trust that there is hope for growing and improving.