Developing Self-Awareness
Updated: Jan 18, 2021
For my next topic, I wanted to discuss self-awareness. This a topic that I have become incredibly passionate about. I personally believe that self-awareness is the most important tool that anyone can take away from therapy, as it leads to
healing. When we become self-aware, we start the journey of our healing. Self-awareness is an important tool to have because it allows for us to look within ourselves and gain a deeper understanding of who we are and why we do the things that we do. When we become self-aware, we can understand why we become triggered by certain things. By looking within ourselves, we give ourselves the space take a step back and assess whether we are accurately portraying situations as they are or if we are simply projecting our own “stuff” into it. Self-awareness gives us insight into our fears, passions, desires, behaviors, and thoughts. Self-awareness also helps us to become more aware of our own toxic patterns and behaviors.
When we pay close attention to our thoughts, feelings, and body sensations, we we are laying the groundwork for understanding ourselves better. Self-awareness leads to self-discovery. When we self-discover, we strengthen the relationship that we have with ourselves.
So how can we begin to develop our self-awareness? Here are some tips that can help begin that process:
1.Practicing Mindful activities. By practicing mindfulness, we learn to pay attention to any body sensations and thoughts, while bringing awareness to them. Practicing spirituality can also be a part of mindfulness.
2.Making lists of the things you are passionate about. By doing this, we are enabled to look within ourselves and put words to the things that keep us driven and give meaning to our lives.
3. Giving yourself the space to express yourself freely. You can do this by either journaling or sharing what you’re feeling with a loved one or a close friend that you feel safe enough to become vulnerable with.
4.Paying attention to your inner dialogue.Try becoming mindful of your inner thoughts in different situations as they arise, while also being aware of the internal tone of your voice. Are you speaking to yourself in ways that could harm your mental health? Would speak to yourself the way you would to a small child or loved one? Maintain a curious stance when listening to your inner dialogue.
5.Not dismissing any thoughts or emotions that may arise, but simply paying attention to them and asking yourself why they are there. By doing this, you are giving yourself the space to self-discover.
6.Going to see a therapist. By going to see a therapist, you will be able to foster conversations that enable you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself in a safe and warm environment. A therapist can help guide you into becoming more aware about yourself through questions and dialogue that promote self-exploration.
I wish you all the best of luck in your journey of healing and self-compassion!