“Tell me about yourself.”

When we think about “ourselves,” there are different concepts to consider. Do we communicate “ourselves” (inclusive but not exhaustive: beliefs, values, ideas, opinions, etc.) with consideration of our internal perception, or do we edit our communication based on what we perceive others believe about us?

It’s a bit loaded, and the answer is both, depending on contexts, receivers, feedback, noise, etc. We also need to consider our cultural surroundings, whatever that looks like. However, there are methods that can help us strike a balance of assertion, confidence and respect, even if the receiver does not posses these attributes. 

Do you feel that you can communicate your “self” and perceptions freely? Or are there always going to be outside forces that force us to morph?

Image description: Allison, Jahneille and Laelle are reflected in a mirror that sits on a vanity. Allison is holding up her phone to take a photo of them in the mirror. There are acrylic reflective letters above the mirror that say: “I saw myself see myself…” This was taken in December 2018 at the Brooklyn Museum.