Latest news with #selfimage
Wall Street Journal
07-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Wall Street Journal
Hair Kept Our Ancestors' Brains Cool—And Gave Them an Evolutionary Advantage
The most luxurious human characteristic—and the one that preoccupies us the most—might be our hair. We curl it, dye it, cut it, braid it and straighten it. We style it to suit our self-image, spending around $100 billion a year globally on its care.
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
15 Odd Traits Of People Who Felt Ugly Growing Up
Growing up, the playground often felt like an arena where beauty reigned supreme. We've all heard the old adage that beauty is only skin deep, but try telling that to your 13-year-old self. If you spent your formative years grappling with feelings of inadequacy about your appearance, you're not alone, and those experiences can shape who you are long into adulthood. Here, we explore 15 traits that often characterize those who felt ugly growing up, shedding light on how the shadows of the past color the adults we become. When you've spent years analyzing your perceived flaws, it's no surprise you've developed a hyper-observant eye for detail. You can sense someone's discomfort or insecurity from miles away, simply because you've been there. According to a study published in Psychological Science, people who were bullied for their looks tend to be more empathetic, often picking up on non-verbal cues better than their peers. This heightened awareness can make you a comforting presence in social settings, where you intuitively navigate the feelings of others. Your acute perception often extends beyond human interaction into the realms of art, fashion, or design. You notice the tiny details—the cut of a jacket, the symmetry of a photo—that many people overlook. It's not just about seeing more but feeling more, deeply ingrained from years of internal reflection. This gift, however, can also be a burden, as your critical eye often turns inward, scrutinizing yourself even when others don't. If you've ever brushed off a compliment with an awkward laugh, you might know where this is coming from. When you've spent so much time doubting your own value, accepting praise can feel like trying to wear a coat that doesn't quite fit. It's not that you don't appreciate the nice words, but old habits die hard, and skepticism lingers. Deep down, there's a part of you that questions whether the compliment is genuine or just polite rhetoric. Yet, this reluctance can also make you more mindful of how you express admiration for others. You've learned that words carry weight, so when you dish out compliments, they are genuine and thoughtful. This sincerity means that those who know you trust your words, giving them a value that is both rare and treasured. In time, you might find that the more you give, the easier it becomes to receive. Growing up feeling underappreciated often leads to a fiercely independent streak. You've learned early on that you can't rely on external validation to define your worth. Psychologist Dr. Elaine Aron suggests in her book The Highly Sensitive Person that those who face adversity in their youth often develop a strong sense of self-reliance. This independence can be a double-edged sword, as it promotes self-sufficiency but can also make you wary of leaning on others. This trait often translates into a robust work ethic and a can-do attitude in your professional life. You're the person who finds solutions when others see roadblocks, not because you have to, but because you can. However, your independence can sometimes border on isolation, making it difficult for you to ask for help even when you need it. Balancing independence with interdependence is a lifelong dance, but one that can lead to personal growth and stronger relationships. Laughter, they say, is the best medicine, and you've mastered the art of using humor as a coping mechanism. Self-deprecating humor becomes a shield, a way to beat others to the punchline about your appearance or awkwardness. It's a skill honed over years of navigating social dynamics, serving as both a deflection and a connection tool. However, while it often endears you to others, it can sometimes mask unresolved issues about self-worth. This talent for humor can foster incredible connections, making you a magnet in social situations. People appreciate your ability not to take yourself too seriously, which in turn makes them feel more comfortable around you. Yet, it's crucial to recognize when humor becomes a crutch rather than a bridge. Understanding when to set aside the jokes and embrace sincerity allows for deeper, more meaningful relationships. A history of feeling unattractive often fuels an insatiable drive to prove oneself in other areas. When you've internalized the idea that you're not enough, achieving tangible success can become a form of compensation. Research from the University of Hertfordshire found that individuals who perceive themselves as unattractive often excel in academics and careers, driven by the need to validate their worth. This relentless drive can lead to impressive accomplishments but also risks burnout if not managed carefully. Ambition can be a powerful force when channeled positively, leading to a life rich with achievements and accolades. Yet, it's essential to recognize the origins of this drive and ensure that your professional achievements align with your personal fulfillment. While external success is gratifying, understanding and appreciating your intrinsic value can provide a more sustained sense of satisfaction. Balancing ambition with self-care is crucial for long-term happiness. When societal beauty standards feel unattainable, the quest for self-expression often leads to a unique personal style. Fashion becomes your canvas, a way to articulate the version of yourself that transcends conventional aesthetics. You've learned that while you might not fit the mold, you can break it entirely, crafting a look that's distinctly yours. This individuality not only sets you apart but often inspires those around you to embrace their quirks. Your style journey is marked by experimentation, a trial-and-error process that eventually unveils your true aesthetic. Whether it's a penchant for vintage finds or a flair for bold colors, your wardrobe choices reflect your inner creativity. While others might chase trends, you understand that true style is timeless, rooted in authenticity rather than conformity. This evolution in self-presentation is a testament to the beauty of knowing and loving oneself. Having felt marginalized for your looks, you have a profound appreciation for qualities that transcend physical appearance. Kindness, intelligence, and authenticity resonate with you more deeply than a symmetrical face or perfect physique. According to psychologist Dr. Vivian Diller, people who felt unattractive growing up often develop a greater capacity for empathy and understanding. This recognition enriches your relationships, allowing you to connect on a level that many overlook. Your emphasis on inner beauty often leads you to form bonds with people who share these values. You surround yourself with individuals who inspire and uplift, valuing depth over superficial charm. While society might prioritize the fleeting allure of physical beauty, you know that true allure lies in one's character. This wisdom not only enriches your personal life but also serves as a guiding principle in how you navigate the world. For some, the quest to overcome feelings of inadequacy results in a relentless pursuit of perfection. If you've ever been dubbed a perfectionist, it might be because you've internalized the idea that being flawless in one arena could compensate for perceived deficiencies in another. This trait can drive you to excel, but it can also be paralyzing, with the fear of making mistakes hindering your progress. Balancing ambition with self-compassion becomes crucial to prevent burnout. While perfectionism can foster high standards and impressive results, it's critical to acknowledge the underlying motivations. The quest for flawlessness often masks deeper insecurities, and recognizing this is the first step toward achieving a healthier mindset. Embracing imperfection can be liberating, leading to more authentic experiences and relationships. It's in the acceptance of one's imperfections that true growth and contentment are found. When you've grown up feeling less-than-perfect, humility becomes a well-worn companion. You're less likely to rest on your laurels or tout your accomplishments, always aware there's more to learn and room to grow. This humility fosters an openness to feedback and a willingness to improve. It's a refreshing quality in a world often obsessed with self-promotion, making you a reliable and trustworthy presence in both personal and professional spheres. This grounded approach allows you to connect with others on an authentic level, free from the need to prove or boast. You understand that true strength lies in vulnerability, and this perspective fosters genuine connections. While humility is a strength, it's important to recognize your worth and celebrate your achievements. Embracing and acknowledging your successes is just as important as striving for improvement. Feeling like an outsider often breeds a deep empathy for those who find themselves on society's fringes. You root for the underdog, understanding their struggles because you've walked a similar path. This empathy extends beyond mere sentiment; it informs your actions, motivating you to advocate for fairness and equality. Your experiences become a source of strength, driving you to create a more inclusive environment for others. This compassionate mindset influences how you engage with the world, often leading you to champion causes that align with your values. Whether it's volunteering, mentoring, or simply lending a listening ear, you're driven by a desire to uplift those who feel marginalized. While your empathy is a gift, it's important to balance it with self-care to avoid emotional exhaustion. Taking time to recharge ensures you can continue to give back sustainably. Growing up feeling unattractive often involves overcoming numerous social hurdles, building resilience along the way. You've faced rejection, judgment, and exclusion, yet emerged stronger, equipped with a toolkit for handling adversity. This resilience becomes a defining trait, enabling you to navigate life's challenges with grace and determination. It's not about avoiding failure but learning and growing from each stumble. Your tenacity inspires those around you, demonstrating the power of perseverance and grit. You've learned to adapt and thrive, turning setbacks into stepping stones toward future success. However, it's crucial to recognize when resilience turns into relentless endurance, risking burnout. Knowing when to pause and recharge is as important as pushing through challenges, ensuring your well-being remains a priority. If you've felt undervalued because of your looks, you're likely wary of relationships that don't go beyond the surface. You know firsthand that appearances can be deceiving, and you prioritize depth and authenticity in your connections. This skepticism often results in a smaller circle of friends, but the bonds you form are genuine and meaningful. You value quality over quantity, seeking out relationships that enrich your life rather than simply fill it. However, this wariness can sometimes make it challenging to open up and trust others fully. You're protective of your heart, cautious of letting people in until you're sure they see and appreciate the real you. Striking a balance between skepticism and openness can lead to more fulfilling connections. Embracing vulnerability is key, allowing you to experience the richness of human connection without fear. When you've felt inadequate growing up, the pursuit of self-improvement becomes ingrained in your psyche. You're constantly seeking ways to better yourself, whether through education, skills, or personal development. This drive for self-betterment is both a strength and a challenge, pushing you to achieve but sometimes leaving you feeling never quite enough. Recognizing this pattern is the first step toward embracing a healthier view of personal growth. The quest for improvement often leads you to explore diverse interests and passions, enriching your life with new experiences. You become a lifelong learner, always curious and open to new possibilities. While self-improvement is commendable, it's essential to balance this drive with self-acceptance. Understanding that growth is a journey, not a destination, allows you to appreciate the progress you've made. When someone sees past your perceived flaws to the person you truly are, you reward them with fierce loyalty. You understand the rarity of genuine connection and cherish those who appreciate you for more than just appearances. This loyalty is unwavering, a testament to the value you place on authentic relationships. In a world full of fleeting interactions, you become the steadfast friend or partner others can rely on. However, this loyalty can sometimes lead to staying in relationships that aren't mutually beneficial. Your desire to maintain connections can make it difficult to recognize when it's time to let go. Finding the balance between loyalty and self-respect is crucial for your well-being. Prioritizing your needs alongside your dedication to others ensures healthier, more balanced relationships. Despite—or perhaps because of—the challenges faced growing up, you've developed an unshakeable sense of self. You know who you are, independent of societal standards of beauty or acceptance. This self-awareness becomes a guiding force, informing your choices and actions with authenticity and confidence. While others may conform to fit in, you stand firm in your identity, embracing what makes you unique. This strong sense of identity empowers you to pursue paths that align with your values and passions. You're not swayed by trends or external pressures, choosing instead to live a life true to yourself. While this confidence is empowering, it's also important to remain open to growth and change. Embracing the fluidity of self allows you to evolve while staying rooted in your core values.
Daily Mail
21-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
I'm 37 and I starved myself in my teens, smoked for 20 years and never said no to a party - when I found out my biological age, I was truly shocked
I'm Monique and I'm 37. It shouldn't be something I need to 'confess' - and I know, intellectually, there's nothing to be ashamed of - but my age is a detail that I've tried to conceal at work. How successful I've been with this is unclear - I'd have to ask my colleagues - but, working on the very youthful Femail desk, I suppose I've lied by omission. When the subject of birthdays comes up in our corner of the office, I place headphones over my ears, fix my eyes on the computer screen and type furiously. If age is discussed at after work drinks in the pub, I adopt a vague expression and float away. My issues with getting older cannot be blamed on my parents. Long before he got ill, my late dad would remind me, with typical dry humour, that getting older was 'better than the alternative'. But, every January when my birthday comes around, it's tinged with a fear that is quite distinct from the existential dread that I assume everyone experiences. I fear the physical signs of ageing which women, in particular, have long been told will limit not only their romantic opportunities but also their professional ones. For, though I think I would be able to blend in with my 28-year-old sister-in-law's friends on a good day - I am, after all, committed to a complicated and expensive skincare routine - I know, rationally, that it's almost impossible. My fraught relationship with ageing is, at least in part, rooted in my understanding of how I've mistreated my body over the years, whether through the restrictive diets and over exercising that pervaded my teens and twenties, the smoking habit that continued for almost two decades - I stopped for good last Christmas - or the predilection for parties that has only recently given way to early nights. While I would describe my present lifestyle as 'moderate' - I eat relatively well, keeping my passion for fried chicken in check, run or swim a couple of times a week, walk whenever I can and rarely drink more than two glasses of wine in one go - I have always wondered whether my previous behaviours would catch up with me. Now in my late thirties - and aware that at 40 our risk of developing myriad health issues increases - I'm becoming more focused on looking after my body. Already at an increased risk of certain cancers due to the BRCA2 gene, it would be foolish not to try to optimise my health and minimise the lifestyle factors that make us all more susceptible to disease. And, just as someone who wants to improve their physical strength needs to start by understanding where their weaknesses are, I wanted to understand what kind of damage I was dealing with - which is where biological age testing came in. 'Understanding a patient's biological age can help identify potential areas for targeted interventions and assist in developing personalised treatment plans to optimise health and well-being,' the company that conducted my test says in its patient report. I must also add, however, that biological age testing is having a moment now, not least thanks to the success of comedian Katherine Ryan's podcast 'What's My Age Again?', which asks celebrity guests to take the test before being interviewed. The Mail's Bryony Gordon appeared on the show last month, receiving a result that she was definitely not expecting. Unsurprisingly, given what I've described here, I wasn't particularly optimistic - I was sure my biological age would be significantly higher than my chronological age, probably somewhere between 50 and 70 - but it was still worth finding out. Of the three tests that can determine someone's biological age in 2025, I took the £375 GlcanAge test at the longevity-focused - and suitably futuristic - HUM2N clinic in London's South Kensington. As the clinic's founder and CEO, Dr Mohammed Enayat, explained: 'The test looks at a process called glycation, which is affected by inflammation, but particularly metabolic inflammation, as one of the major drivers of aging.' The number and type of 'glycans' in the patient's blood, chain-like structures which play a vital role in the majority of biological processes and determine whether your cells will experience inflammatory or anti-inflammatory reactions, are analysed in a lab. Through this, it is possible to provide a clear picture of the general health of their body. When I received my result in a typed report, I was nothing short of shocked. My biological age wasn't somewhere between 50 and 70 - it was, remarkably, 20. My first thought was: How? But while I had lots of questions for Dr Enayat, he was not especially surprised, partly due to the way the GlycanAge test actually works. The test 'reflects the preceding two-three months', the doctor explained, which, in turn, means that the result can change - both improve and get worse - relatively quickly. 'If you were to measure this during [a period of] illness, your biological age undoubtedly would have been a lot higher,' he added. I did my test on May 8 and, between March 1 and mid-April, I didn't drink any alcohol, an irritating reminder that abstaining from booze only helps with overall health. Dr Enayat agreed that my result was 'obviously positive' - but he didn't let me bask in glory for too long. Rather, we swiftly moved on to the areas where I didn't score well and, in some cases, scored badly. My score in one of the metrics, Glycan Median, which is positively influenced by factors like heart health, metabolic health and weight, was in the second percentile. Improving this is relatively straightforward, however, with increased exercise - not only cardio but also strength training - being highly recommended. Similarly, my score for the Glycan Lifestyle (B) metric, which is negatively influenced by factors like smoking, poor sleep and stress, was much worse than that of other women my age. I'm painfully aware that I don't sleep very well, often waking in the very early hours and unable to get back to sleep, something which I reported in the symptom questionnaire that I filled out before discussing my results with the doctor. There are, of course, measures I can take here, the most obvious being paying more attention to the horribly-named 'sleep hygiene'. The 3-2-1 rule, for example, which insists on no food or alcohol three hours before bed, no work or exercise two hours before bed and no screens one hour before bed, is one tried and tested approach. As someone who tends to scroll news, clothes and dating apps until my eyes are closing, or my phone runs out of battery, there's a lot of room for improvement. So, what now? The worst thing I could do with my impressive result, I was made to understand, would be to be complacent. Given that biological age can change as frequently as every two-three months, it would be unadvisable to embrace late nights or start drinking to excess. While it might be interesting to see how much damage I could do in a relatively short period, a much better bet would be to remember where I didn't score well and work with experts - a nutritionist and personal trainer in my case - to improve these. Indeed, members of HUM2N's health programmes experience a 42 per cent improvement in their overall health in as little as eight weeks. With memberships starting at £299 per month, plus a joining fee of £595, an advanced clinic like HUM2N could not be called accessible - though I've no doubt that I would experience the improvements promised. But am I ready to commit to a rigorous programme when the sun is shining, outdoor drinking is in full swing and holidays are on the horizon? I think I better leave it until September.
Daily Mail
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
I'm not ashamed of reading troll paradise Tattle. It exposes grifting influencers and their hypocrisy... I'll be bereft if it shuts down: CLAUDIA CONNELL
The email was brief and to the point. 'Has anyone ever told you that you've got a face like the Churchill dog?' asked the author, contacting me after I'd written about losing weight. Then there was the time, after revealing my online dating adventures, that a charming gent wrote a letter to tell me 'You look like an overstuffed sofa, no wonder you're single.'
Daily Mail
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Expert reveals the phone lock screen which could mean that you're a self-absorbed 'narcissist'
Choosing what to use as the background of your phone lock screen is a small decision - but it could say a lot about you. Take US President Donald Trump, for example, who was lambasted last week for adorning his phone screen with a photograph of none other than himself. Social media users spotted a golden opportunity to mock the president after the reveal when he alighted Air Force One last month. It clearly showed an image of the POTUS himself from July 2019, pointing straight at the camera - or at himself whenever he looks at it. Critics said it was evidence of Trump's 'narcissistic' personality, branding him as 'self-absorbed'. But what does yours say about the persona you project to the outside world? While they aren't necessarily accurate depictions of the device owner's personality, it's safe to say that, for most people, wallpapers serve as great place for snaps of loved ones, cherished pets, or anything that could put a positive spin on the day. Holly Beedon, Clinical Lead from Living Well UK, told Femail that it can offer a 'subtle but revealing window into how we see ourselves, what we value, and where our attention naturally drifts'. What we choose for our phone lock screen can sometimes reflect certain traits of our personality or life stage that we are in, says expert Holly Beedon. Stock image used 'While there's no definitive psychological diagnosis to be made from a single image, patterns and preferences can hint at our emotional priorities and unconscious self-messaging,' she continued. If you, like Trump, have a selfie of yourself as your phone lock screen, you may be seen as 'somewhat self-centred', she continued - adding that, 'in some cases, this is true'. 'This kind of imagery could be tied to narcissistic traits – specifically the desire to admire one's own image, or curate a specific identity.' However, she caveats that 'it's not always that simple'. 'Some people use a flattering photo of themselves during a period when they felt confident, motivated, or empowered – this almost serves a visual pep talk to oneself,' she added. There are other, more practical reasons for why someone might choose a photo of themselves for their phone lock screen. Doing so can make it easier to return a lost phone to its rightful owner, for example. Holly continued: 'So, while self-image can certainly play a role, the intention behind the choice to make yourself your own lock screen matters just as much.' Meanwhile, picking a photo of a partner to look at whenever your phone lights up 'often reflects emotional closeness and romantic focus', she explained. 'It can signal that the relationship is central to that person's life or that they find comfort and motivation in seeing their significant other daily. For some, it's a private way of reinforcing connection and intimacy in a busy or stressful life.' This could be the reason behind Kylie Jenner's phone screen, which she revealed in 2023 had a snap of boyfriend Timothee Chalamet leaning in to kiss her cheek. Some people choose to use photos of their family members, such as children or parents, and this usually represents 'strong emotional bonds and values rooted in caregiving, tradition, or identity'. Mike Tindall demonstrated this in 2019 when he revealed an adorable family photo featuring his wife Zara Tindall and their daughter Mia, who was five at the time, on his phone screen while he was away in Japan. Parents with multiple children tread in dangerous waters, though, if they display just one child on their lock screen. It doesn't necessarily mean that the child who lights up the screen is their 'favourite', but that could be how others might perceive it, Holly warned. 'It might simply be the most recent photo taken, or one that captures a particularly proud moment,' she remarked. 'Still, if this is a consistent pattern, it could suggest a closer bond with one child, or that they identify more strongly with that particular relationship.' Having a photo of friends on a lock screen can often indicate that the device owner is someone who 'thrives on social connection and values their chosen relationships deeply'. How you come to the decision of who takes pride of place on your phone screen can be a surprisingly emotional decision, and having friends there could reflect 'a stage of life where friendships are the primary support system'. As Britons become ever more pet-obsessed - with figures showing an estimated 60 per cent of UK households owning at least one pet - it's no surprise that our furry friends are a popular lock screen choice. Having them on your phone can represent a strong emotional attachment, and could also mean your pet is a source of daily comfort. 'Pets often bring a calming or joyful energy to someone's day,' Holly continued. 'And having them on a lock screen can reflect that soothing or stabilising role.' People and pets aside, some phone owners prefer to have images of nature or scenery, which might suggest a need for calm, inspiration, or escapism, the expert added. 'People who use these photos may value mindfulness, solitude, or feel most themselves when outdoors,' she explained. 'Sometimes, these photos serve as visual reminders to slow down or to mentally return to a peaceful place during the stress of daily life.' Others yet have photos of seemingly random objects - but Holly says these are 'rarely random at all' and usually represent something meaningful to the person whose phone it is. It could be anything from 'a goal, an aesthetic, a private joke, or a vision board of sorts'. Some people may even use their phone lock screen as a means of visualisation or manifestation, using it as 'daily cues to focus the mind and align behaviours with a goal'. Finally, there's the phone owners who simply have a blank screen - although these people are increasingly few and far between. If you do come across someone who has nothing at all on their phone background, it could be because they prefer minimalism, privacy, or to avoid distractions as much as possible. 'A blank lock screen might reflect a desire for digital simplicity, or a subtle resistance to the emotional pull of personal photos,' Holly suggested. 'For others, it's simply a way to protect mental space - deliberately not engaging with their phone on an emotional level. 'Ultimately, a lock screen isn't a psychological blueprint, you can't know somebody through such a small detail - but it can be a telling snapshot of what someone wants to see – how they want to feel - or be reminded of - multiple times a day.'
