Write a one and half page paper (typed, single-spaced, 12 font, and 1-inch margin) describing your ideal and Pygmalion self. Write about any heroes or other influences that have shaped your ideal self. Discuss what your ideal self reveals about your values and character. Give examples of positive and negative Pygmalion experiences you have experienced. Discuss if and how these experiences influenced your sense of worth and self-esteem.
The concept of the ideal self, as introduced by the psychologist Carl Rogers, refers to the person we aspire to become. It encompasses our hopes, dreams, and desired qualities, reflecting our vision of our future selves. The ideal self serves as a driving force for personal growth and development. In my case, my ideal self is characterized by intelligence, compassion, and resilience.
Numerous heroes and influences have shaped my ideal self. One significant influence is my parents, who have always emphasized the importance of education and personal integrity. Their tireless efforts to provide me with opportunities for academic and personal growth have motivated me to strive for excellence. Furthermore, their own admirable qualities of perseverance and compassion have undoubtedly influenced my ideal self.
Another influential figure in shaping my ideal self is the scientist and inventor Nikola Tesla. His groundbreaking discoveries and innovations have inspired me to think outside the box and pursue intellectual curiosity. Tesla’s determination to overcome obstacles, as well as his commitment to benefiting humanity, resonates with my own values.
Reflecting upon my ideal self reveals valuable insights about my values and character. The emphasis I place on intelligence reflects my belief in the power of knowledge to create positive change. I value critical thinking, problem-solving, and a thirst for learning, with the aim of contributing to the advancement of society.
Compassion is another prominent trait in my ideal self. I aspire to be empathetic, kind, and understanding, recognizing the importance of supporting and uplifting others. This quality is essential to my values of social justice and equality, driving me to take proactive steps to make a difference in the lives of others.
Resilience is a significant aspect of my ideal self. I believe in the necessity of resilience to overcome obstacles and setbacks. It is the fuel that enables personal growth and the pursuit of goals, even in the face of adversity. I value perseverance, determination, and the ability to bounce back from challenges.
Throughout my life, I have experienced both positive and negative Pygmalion experiences that have significantly impacted my sense of worth and self-esteem. Positive Pygmalion experiences occur when others have high expectations for us and provide support and encouragement to reach those expectations. In my academic journey, I have been fortunate to have mentors and teachers who believed in my potential and pushed me to challenge myself.
For instance, one of my high school teachers recognized my aptitude for mathematics and encouraged me to participate in local math competitions. This experience not only boosted my confidence but also ignited my passion for mathematics. Moreover, the encouragement and belief in my abilities contributed to my determination to pursue a career in a STEM field.
On the other hand, negative Pygmalion experiences occur when others have low expectations for us or undermine our abilities. These experiences can be detrimental to one’s sense of worth and self-esteem. During my early years in school, I was often overlooked by teachers and underestimated in terms of my academic abilities.
One particular instance that stands out is when I was assigned a group project, and my input and ideas were continuously dismissed by my group members. This made me question my worth and competence, leading to a temporary decline in my self-esteem. However, I eventually learned to value my own abilities and seek meaningful validation from within.
In conclusion, my ideal self is shaped by my parents, who taught me the importance of education and personal integrity, as well as the scientist Nikola Tesla, who inspired me to think critically and strive for intellectual curiosity. The values and character traits embodied by my ideal self, such as intelligence, compassion, and resilience, align with my personal beliefs and aspirations. Positive and negative Pygmalion experiences have influenced my sense of worth and self-esteem, providing valuable lessons in overcoming challenges and believing in my own abilities.