Increasing Self-Awareness

A healthy, fulfilled life depends on having self-awareness.

Knowing yourself means knowing what you like and dislike, recognizing what motivates you, and even being aware of your strengths and weaknesses.

Knowing and living by your own rules, following those rules, and recognizing your own behaviours all contribute to a sense of self-awareness. The self-aware person rarely causes confusion. They are in touch with whom they really are and what they value.

Knowing who you are means being self-confident. You comprehend yourself completely.

People who know themselves well are open to and accepting of critical feedback. After all, critical feedback reminds you of your own abilities. Whenever we're told honestly and without malice what our mistakes are and how we can improve, we have just gained a lot of very useful information that helps us be more aware of who we are.

However, what if you haven't previously thought about these issues, such as your weaknesses and strengths or what motivates you? Then you might want to get to know yourself better!

To enhance your self-awareness, consider the following suggestions:

1. What are your likes and dislikes?

Self-awareness will begin when you identify what you don't like and what you do. For example, if you don't like going to the theatre, then it may not be the best fit for you. Alternatively, if you enjoy the ballet or the symphony, why not spend more time there?

For instance, maybe you dislike boating but your friend, Sam, always wants you to go on his boat with him. It's likely that you feel good about yourself for making Sam happy, but you'll probably be even happier if you get Sam to participate with you from time to time in a hobby you enjoy as well.

2. What motivates you?

Do you feel inspired by love, personal interest, or money? How can you perform your job to the best of your ability if you don't love it? Most of us have heard the tale of a student who loved math, but he earned an "F" in the class because he didn't like his math teacher.

Perhaps you don't have to love something in order to perform it, but you do need to be genuinely interested in it.

○ Money is an incredible motivator for many. You may have a similar motivation. Some of the most motivated people you'll find are people who have been paid to mow lawns since they were 12 years old. When they learn the value of money and how to acquire it, they are always motivated.

3. Write down your strengths.

Write down everything that you are good at. Keep this list and review it from time to time. Be aware of what you can do. Next, list your weaknesses. It's crucial to know what you do well and where you can improve.

4. Which rules do you live by?

Some people follow the rules of their religion. Other people follow the rules of their parents. Being aware of your own version of the ideal will help you better understand yourself. Has your view of the world changed since you left the family home? Are these beliefs stable or open to change?

5. Review your habits.

Almost everyone has habits - activities they repeat throughout their day. Getting to know your habits will reveal more about you. Are you prone to twisting your hair or snapping your fingers?

It's good to know your habits because it lets you know who you are. Not to mention that once you know yourself better, you can change your habits for the better. In order to change your habits, awareness is necessary.

6. Openly accept feedback from others. If you have people around you who are honest with you about your actions and behaviours, you'll gain a new perspective on yourself, which enhances your self-awareness.

Self-knowledge is key to living consciously, which leads to a happier, healthier life.

When you're in touch with whom you are, your day-to-day life gains great clarity. Increase your self-awareness to enjoy a more rewarding life experience.

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Main image supplied by Alev Takil IG: Alev Takil Instagram: @alevtakil

Regards, Paula

Career Coach and Employability Trainer

Follow me on Instagram: @Donnan.coaching

For assistance with any of the information above, please e-mail me at info@donnancoachingservices.com

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