ACTIVITY
The Masks We Wear
The Masks We Wear - Self-Image Activity
Objective:
To gain a deeper understanding of your self-image by identifying and reflecting on the three masks you wear in different aspects of your life.
This may be done as a writing activity or an art/drawing activity
Materials Needed:
- A blank sheet of paper or a notebook
- Writing utensils (pen, pencil, or markers)
- Quiet and comfortable space for reflection
Instructions:
- Set the Stage: Find a quiet and comfortable place where you won't be disturbed. This activity requires introspection and reflection.
- Regulate before Reflecting: Close your eyes if it’s comfortable, take a few deep breaths until your body feels more relaxed.
- Writing Activity Option
- Divide Your Paper: Draw two vertical lines on your blank sheet of paper, creating three columns.
- Label each column as follows:
- Column 1: The Public Mask
- Column 2: The Personal Mask
- Column 3: The Private Mask
- Label each column as follows:
- Divide Your Paper: Draw two vertical lines on your blank sheet of paper, creating three columns.
- Art/Drawing Activity Option
- Use 3 Pieces of Paper: Each paper will represent one of your 3 masks.
- Label each paper as follows:
- The Public Mask
- The Personal Mask
- The Private Mask
- Label each paper as follows:
- Use 3 Pieces of Paper: Each paper will represent one of your 3 masks.
- Identify the Masks:
- Public Mask (Column 1): This is the mask that most people see. In this column/on this page, write down/draw a depiction of how you believe you present yourself to the outside world. Consider the persona you adopt in social or professional situations, how you behave in public, and the image you project to others. Be honest about the traits or behaviors you may consciously or unconsciously emphasize in public settings.
- Personal Mask (Column 2): This is the mask we wear around loved ones. In this column/on this page, write down/draw a depiction characteristics or behaviors that you believe represent your true self when you're with friends, family, or close associates. Think about how you act when you're in your comfort zone and among people who know you well.
- Private Mask (Column 3): This mask is seldom worn. In fact, sometimes we wear the others masks over this one. In this column/on this page, write down/draw a depiction the aspects of your personality or self-image that you keep hidden from the world. These might be vulnerabilities, insecurities, or traits that you seldom share with others. Reflect on why you keep these aspects private.
- Reflect and Analyze: Take some time to review what you've written in each column. Consider the following questions for each mask:
- Public Mask: How does this mask serve you in public situations? Is there anything you'd like to change or improve about it?
- Personal Mask: Do you feel authentic when wearing this mask among close friends and family? Are there any aspects of your true self that you'd like to express more openly?
- Private Mask: What drives you to keep certain aspects of yourself hidden? Are there any self-acceptance or self-esteem issues related to this mask that you'd like to work on?
- Summarize Your Insights: Write a brief summary or reflection on what you've learned about yourself through this activity. Are there any patterns or contradictions you've noticed among the three masks?
Remember that self-discovery is an ongoing process, and these masks may evolve over time. This activity is a valuable tool for gaining insight into your self-image and can be revisited periodically to track your personal growth and changes in self-perception.