The Practice of Self Awareness
The Compass for Creating The Life You Want
By Sarah Compton
Developing self-awareness is being in touch with your emotions, thoughts, needs, body, and values. It is the ability to objectively and rationally look inward. When you think of someone you know that is self-aware, you probably notice that they are in touch with their inner voice, motives, strengths, and weaknesses.
Honestly and objectively looking inward can be messy and uncomfortable.
So, what’s the point?
Practicing and strengthening your self-awareness is the foundation to staying true to your values and goals. By staying self-aware and taking the time to check-in with yourself, you can notice and act on emotions and needs before they take you off course.
Imagine, your boat is on the sea of life. The waves crash, the winds gust, the thick fog rolls in. You may have an idea for your life, a goal and hope that you are working towards. It keeps your resolve and you envision reaching that land. You may even have a map, with your practices, tools, and plans to reach there.
Self-awareness is your compass and despite your best efforts you may find yourself lost without it.
The Practice of Self Awareness
Practicing self-awareness is checking in with your own compass and asking yourself:
Am I on track?
Am I aligned with my values?
Where am I in my heart, body, emotions, and beliefs?
Are these thoughts and actions getting me closer to my goal?
By checking-in with yourself and practicing self-awareness you don’t only help yourself redirect, correct, and shift direction. It can also tell you that you’re right on course!
Self-awareness is that instrumental piece of your journey to reach the life you want.
How To Do It On A Deeper Level
Need some more practical tips for practicing self-awareness?
These can be done as silent reflections or as journal entries.
Carve out some quiet time to simply be with yourself, without distraction. What comes up for you when you slow down and there is quiet? Notice and name it.
Be intentional throughout the day. Notice what activities/people/environments drain you and what gives you inspiration and fulfillment.
Unsure about your values, strengths and weaknesses? Get some distance and objectivity. Imagine you are the main character of your life’s movie. What values does your protagonist lead with? What challenges did they face? What wounds and gifts do they carry? What drives and motivates them?
Focus on your breath and body. Rest a hand on your chest or stomach. Take a moment to feel your body naturally move with each breath. Notice any sensations, discomfort, or emotions that may come up. Ask yourself: Does my body need some deeper breaths? Is my body nourished and hydrated? What is my body language, posture, and facial expression telling to myself and others?
With these practices you may discover there are insecurities, pains, and even blind spots that you didn’t notice before. It can be uncomfortable to turn inward and really look at yourself. Remember that awareness is the first step to growth and change. Your honesty and acceptance can lead to positive changes both in the short and long term!
Research shows people with good self-awareness tend to have more fulfilling relationships, improved compassion for self and others, and a more positive outlook on life.
So take the time.
Be intentional about looking inward.
You first need to know where you are in mind, body, spirit, and values to then decide where to go next or simply stay the course.
If you are in Redding, CA or California and want to learn more about how self-awareness can help with your mental health book a consultation call today!
