Growing in Self-Awareness

It is often said that the one in touch with his/her heart is the one noticeably able to grow and thrive in relationships. There is no argument there. Self awareness is a beautiful thing because it requires that you embrace yourself, even as you recognize your strengths and weaknesses in every season. It is most definitely revealing, and it could dig up hidden pain to the surface but it sure allows you to heal and constantly provides you with opportunities to become more free.

Here are a few ways you can activate self-awareness in your life;

Alone time

Whether you journal, listen to an inspirational podcast or just sit there with your thoughts, this practice will help you become intentional about checking in with yourself. How am I feeling? Why do I feel that? Is it something I should foster and cherish or throw away in the nearest trash bin? These are the types of questions you should ask yourself on a daily basis. And not in a dutiful manner, but rather as an attempt to confront your thought life and gain power over it. It should never be leading you.

Listen to your needs

Sometimes when we’re cranky and stirring up random fights with people, it is simply because we need a nap or we’re hungry. Sometimes when we feel isolated or lonely, this dark cloud vanishes if we simply  call up someone to just talk. Or have a warm cup of coffee with a dear friend. Sometimes a randomly gloomy day can be turned around if you exercise or go for a walk. Let’s not forget that taking care of basic physical needs will directly affect our emotional states. And of course, vice versa.

Give yourself grace

It is easy to get fed up with yourself when you’re aware of all the ways you’re falling short of the kind of person you want to be. Instead of garnering a heap of shame or guilt, we have to learn to be kind and patient with ourselves. Otherwise, this turns into a toxic scenario where you begin acting like a horrible boss to your inner self. The aim of healthy self awareness is to talk to yourself the way you would talk to the people you love. You encourage them, you assure them, you believe in them and you help them find solutions to their problems. The same should go for your reaction to every weakness your eyes become open to about yourself.