Write A One And A Half Page Paper (Typed, Single-Spaced, 12 ✓ Solved

Write a one and half page paper (typed, single-spaced, 12 font

Write a one and half page paper 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.

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The concept of the "ideal self" and the "Pygmalion self" are critical to understanding personal development and self-perception. The ideal self embodies the person one aspires to be, shaped by values, aspirations, role models, and life experiences. In contrast, the Pygmalion self reflects the influence of external perceptions and expectations on one's self-image and behavior, often emphasizing how those perceptions can enhance or undermine one's sense of worth. In this paper, I will explore my ideal self, the individuals and experiences that have influenced my aspirations, and how these have interacted with my Pygmalion experiences.

My Ideal Self: Values and Influences

My ideal self is someone who values empathy, resilience, and continuous learning. This vision has been shaped largely by figures who have inspired me throughout my life. For instance, my father serves as a significant hero in my life; his unwavering commitment to his principles, particularly throughout times of adversity, has instilled in me the importance of integrity. Observing how he navigates life's challenges has encouraged me to cultivate my own resilience, demonstrating that struggles can be met with an unwavering spirit.

Additionally, public figures such as Malala Yousafzai and Nelson Mandela have influenced my ideal self. Malala’s bravery in advocating for education rights and Mandela's dedication to fighting apartheid have instilled in me the value of fighting for justice and equality. They represent the courage to stand up for what is right, which is a core element of my ideal self. I aspire to embody their qualities by being an advocate for those whose voices are marginalized and ensuring that my actions align with my values.

Pygmalion Experiences and Their Impact

The notion of the Pygmalion effect—a psychological phenomenon where high expectations lead to improved performance—has played a significant role in shaping my self-esteem. One positive Pygmalion experience that stands out occurred during my high school years. My teacher recognized my potential in mathematics and consistently encouraged me to participate in advanced classes. This belief in my capabilities fostered a transformation; I began to view myself as a competent mathematician, which propelled me to pursue further studies in the field. Through her encouragement, I developed confidence not only in mathematics but also in my overall intellectual abilities.

Conversely, I’ve experienced negative Pygmalion effects as well. A less supportive environment during my early schooling left me feeling inadequate in various subjects. For instance, a teacher's dismissive comments about my writing skills led to a diminished sense of worth. For years, I internalized the belief that I was not a good writer, which subsequently stifled my willingness to express myself through writing. This experience highlighted how crucial positive reinforcement is to building self-esteem and developing one’s identity.

Reflections on Self-Worth and Self-Esteem

Reflecting on these experiences reveals a nuanced relationship between my ideal self and the Pygmalion self. The encouragement from my father and influential heroes fortified my values and sense of purpose, affirming the strength in my idealized vision. On the other hand, the contrasting negative experiences provided a painful but necessary understanding of the external factors that can shape self-perception and esteem. Such experiences highlight the importance of fostering environments that uplift individuals, as one's sense of worth is often derived from the beliefs imposed by others.

Ultimately, the synthesis of my ideal self and Pygmalion experiences illustrates a journey defined by exploration and growth. Each positive reinforcement has been a stepping stone toward realizing my ideal self, while each negative experience has served as a reminder of the potential consequences of unmet expectations. I aim to merge these insights into a personal philosophy that emphasizes kindness and the power of belief—both in myself and in others. As I continue to redefine my self-concept, my focus will remain on becoming a person who not only aspires to achieve greatness but also inspires those around me to do the same.

References

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• Brill, J. (2009). Expectation and performance: The Pygmalion effect. Harvard Business Review.
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• Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. New York: Random House.
• Goleman, D. (1998). Working with emotional intelligence. New York: Bantam Books.
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