Self-Harm, "The Iron Giant" and The Choices You Make

Years ago, my brother introduced me to a movie called The Iron Giant. Some of you may know of this movie and if you’ve never seen it – you need to. You may think it is just another silly, cartoon, kid’s movie about robots, but it most definitely is not. This movie has positive messages that everyone can learn from – especially teenagers and adults.

My last blog discussed the good and the bad of the Internet and how it can lead to different behaviors and thoughts. I coincidentally came across a picture of The Iron Giant when re-directing myself from a stressor and it reminded me about how powerful the movie really is.

“You are what you choose to be.” Not only is that the main message in the movie, it is also something we should follow on a daily basis.

You Own the Choices You Make

When I was a self-harmer, I’d grow very angry with myself after the marks had been made. The pain lasted long enough for my mind to adjust to another focus and that re-direction was the reason behind my self-injury. However, after some time, I realized that what I’d done was not the right way to handle my problems.

Therefore, I was back at square one.

Self-harmers are looked at in many different ways. People sometimes assume that everyone who self-harms wants to commit suicide or that the behaviors are cries for attention. Some people may not truly understand why people cut, burn, or head-bang and how it really helps relieve frustration.

When you start to focus on you and what you want to achieve, you will stop caring about the assumptions and the stereotypes of others. When you finally get to the point where you really see your self-harm as the addiction it is, you will have a clearer view of the change you want to strive for.

Be Your Own Superman

In The Iron Giant, the giant decides that he wants to be Superman. He discovers how he can use his powers for good and learns that even though others see him through critical eyes, he can be whatever he wants to be.

Of course, it is not an easy road to walk on.

We all know that it is an extremely bumpy road when you want positive change in your life. There are many obstacles to overcome and even after you jump those hurdles, even more seem to appear. However, those obstacles need to be the push you are looking for. Those bumps in the road need to be seen as arrows pointing you in the direction you’re aiming for.

With self-harm, it takes a lot of determination and focus to stop the behavior and even when you realize how dangerous the behavior is, it still isn’t easy. However, once you start to picture who you want to be and how you want to be seen, the route to change becomes a little less foggy.

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