The “I Am” Body Outline

When to use it

Use when a learner wants to describe valued qualities, strengths and achievable habits in a visual form.

How to use it

1. Draw a simple person outline or choose an accessible alternative such as a circle of qualities. Artistic accuracy and resemblance to your actual body are not the goal.

2. Add words or pictures for qualities you value: kindness, persistence, curiosity or asking for help. Use “I am learning to…” when that is more truthful than claiming a finished ability.

3. For each statement, tell a short why story. Explain why the quality matters in ordinary life rather than comparing yourself with someone else’s appearance or ability.

4. Describe one scene in which you would practice that quality. Separate an aspiration from an already demonstrated skill.

5. Choose a suitable supporting action. Curiosity might mean asking a question; persistence might mean returning to a manageable task after a break. Seek adult guidance for activities involving health or physical demands.

6. Display the outline privately if preferred and review a few statements at a time. Add evidence of actual actions and revise a statement that feels unhelpful or unrealistic.

A worked example

A practical illustration of the method.

A learner writes “I am a caring teammate” beside a drawing of two people. The why story explains wanting others to feel included. The action is to ask a new participant whether they would like a turn. Later the learner adds a small account of what happened rather than changing the outline to rank their body or athletic performance.

Use it thoughtfully

Do not imply that illness, body size or disability resulted from negative thoughts.

Encouraging statements do not replace instruction, care, food, rest or appropriate support.

A learner may skip the body outline if it makes them uncomfortable and use a qualities card instead.

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