BIG PICTURE

Believe it or not, expressing ourselves actually shifts our mental state. The act of expression causes us to move from a state of protection or guarding ourselves from others, to a state of becoming more open-minded and collaborative. When we feel free to be honest and vulnerable with people, we open the door for them to do the same.

ADDING DEFINITION

Self expression is the way we share our thoughts and feelings with the world around us. It’s one way we distinguish ourselves as individuals. Closely linked with creativity, when we express ourselves, we activate parts of our brain associated with original ideas and problem solving. Most importantly, expressing ourselves gives us the chance to explore and try out different aspects of our identity.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Sharing ourselves with the world takes courage, but there are a few things we can do to be more confident in how we show up. A helpful place to start is to identify how we feel in the present . Then ask how we can most confidently share those feelings — whether it be through words, writing, art, dance, or a range of other ways.