The way we look on the outside does affect our self concept. In turn, our self concept affects the way we project ourselves to the world.
It seems like there are two polar extremes in the way we can choose to perceive outer appearances and inner beauty. Outer appearances can be a high priority, almost the exclusion of inner self worth. And some people feel that focusing on physical attractiveness is superficial.
Ultimately what matters is the happiness of the individual. Some people have enormous levels of self esteem and confidence, which completely overrides how they feel about the way they look. This is a wonderful state of being.
On the other hand, there is nothing wrong with admiring outer beauty and wanting to enhance your appearance. This is a natural human reaction.
However, this inclination needs to be balanced with a healthy sense of self. Investing an excessive amount of personal energy on one’s physical appearance is not healthy.
Therefore, it is the responsibility of each and every person to do the soul searching that is necessary to really understand themselves at a very truthful level. We need to develop a positive relationship with ourselves and have a clear sense of who we are when no one else is around. And we need to understand the true origins of our happiness.
Do you derive happiness from your relationships? Does your self confidence come from another source besides your appearance? Are you living a balanced and healthy lifestyle?
Defining happiness on an inner level is important to really get the best experience from a cosmetic procedure. Unrealistic expectations will lead to disappointment. For example going through surgery to save a relationship is not a good idea.
However, if a condition such as severe acne scars has been a constant source of self consciousness, then clearing the scars would only help the patient experience a very positive personal transformation emotionally and physically.
Outer beauty is never the ultimate objective. It only serves to compliment our confidence and sense of inner contentment. For many of us, our self concept is shaped by our appearance and who we believe ourselves to be apart from how we look. Striking a balance between these two dynamics and maintaining a healthy balanced perspective on our lives is essential.
