Ever caught yourself standing in front of the mirror thinking, God, I look awful today or What will people think of my outfit? Meanwhile, someone else is looking at you and thinking, Wow, her hair is so shiny or She speaks with such confidence—I bet her life is totally together.
There’s this weird disconnect between how we see ourselves and how others see us. We get so caught up in the little things—our weight, our clothes, that one spot on our chin—that we forget what really shines about us. Spoiler: it’s not our waistline or our perfectly styled hair. It’s the way we laugh, the way we show up, the way we carry ourselves, even on the days we don’t feel like it.
Time to Reframe That Inner Voice
If we could step outside ourselves for just a moment, we’d see what others see—our warmth, our kindness, the way we make people feel. But instead, we nitpick. And that negative self-talk? It’s doing nothing for us. So, let’s change the script.
Try this: The next time you hear that little voice telling you you’re not enough, replace it with, I am enough. I am more than enough. Say it out loud if you can. Whisper it if that feels too much. But say it. And say it again.
Wear Your Invisible Cape
Picture this: You’re walking into a room wearing an invisible cape—a cape made from every compliment you’ve ever received, every challenge you’ve overcome, every time you showed up when it was hard. That’s what others see when they look at you. They don’t see the thing you’re stressing over. They see someone who’s doing their best, someone who has something—that thing they wish they had too.
Let’s Be Kinder to Ourselves
So, here’s a little challenge: Every time you catch yourself picking apart the way you look or doubting your worth, ask yourself—Would I say this to my best friend? If the answer is no, then it doesn’t belong in your head either.
And if you need a reminder? Studio Nine is always here, ready with a cuppa and a gentle nudge to remind you just how brilliant you really are. 💛
If it is all getting too much, reach out to a friend. Below are ways of starting a difficult conversation about yourself can feel vulnerable, but you don’t have to put yourself down to do it. Here are five ways to open up while keeping it compassionate and constructive:
1. The Honest Opener
“I’ve been sitting with something lately, and I’d really love to share it with you. Can we chat?”
This sets the tone that you trust them and that what you’re about to say is important, without diminishing yourself in the process.
2. The “I’m Growing” Approach
“I’ve been reflecting a lot on how I feel about [situation], and I’m trying to understand it better. Can I talk it through with you?”
This frames the conversation as self-awareness rather than self-criticism. You’re not saying something is “wrong” with you—you’re exploring, learning, and growing.
3. The Strength in Vulnerability
“I’m working on being more open about things that feel tough for me. I trust you, so I wanted to talk about something that’s been on my mind.”
This reinforces that vulnerability is a strength and invites connection rather than pity.
4. The “I Value Your Perspective” Approach
“You’re someone whose opinion I really respect, and I’d love to hear your thoughts on something personal I’m working through.”
This helps shift the focus from feeling “too much” to recognizing the value of shared insight and support.
5. The Future-Focused Check-In
“I’ve been thinking about how I can take better care of myself, and I’m realizing [challenge] has been holding me back. I’d love to talk about it with you.”
This keeps the conversation empowering—you’re not just sharing a struggle, you’re looking ahead to solutions and self-care.
Each of these approaches allows you to open up without diminishing yourself. You’re not a burden—you’re a person navigating life, and your feelings are valid. 💛
Studio Nine 