Self awareness from my experience

Self-awareness threads its way as a fundamental aspect of our existence. It’s a journey of continuous exploration, like an odyssey through the labyrinth of our own thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Over the past four years, self-awareness has been my steadfast companion, guiding me through the ebbs and flows of true discovery.

But what is self-awareness? It’s not merely acknowledging our existence but delving deep into the recesses of our being, comprehending our character, understanding our emotions, and discerning the intricate web of thoughts that shape our reality. Self-awareness is a conscious knowledge of oneself, a cornerstone upon which personal growth is built.

Developing self-awareness is not an overnight feat; it’s a journey that demands time, patience, and discipline. It’s about nurturing a desire to understand oneself better, to peel back the layers of our psyche and unravel the mysteries within. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to cultivating self-awareness; it’s a deeply personal endeavour, with each individual charting their own path.

Reflecting on my own journey, I realise that self-awareness is not a destination but a continual evolution. Two years ago, I believed I had a good grasp of myself, only to realise that it was merely the tip of the iceberg. True self-awareness is an ongoing process, a commitment to self-discovery that transcends time and space.

Self Awareness Journey

I believe self-awareness is not merely about knowing oneself but harnessing that knowledge to effect change in our lives. It’s about taking ownership of our thoughts and emotions, refusing to let negativity fester within us. It’s about examining each thought, each emotion, with the curiosity of an outsider, and making a conscious choice about how to respond.

In the beginning, it may take days to shift a single thought that doesn’t serve us. But with practice and perseverance, it becomes second nature. We learn to embrace failure as a friend, recognising that it’s through our setbacks that we glean the most profound insights. And we come to understand that worrying about the future serves no purpose; it’s in the present moment that we find our true power.

But self-awareness isn’t a static state; it’s a dynamic process that requires constant nurturing. It’s about being attuned to the fluctuations of our internal landscape, even on the days when we feel most vulnerable. It’s about finding strength in adversity, resilience in the face of uncertainty.

There are myriad ways to cultivate self-awareness, from mindfulness practices to journaling to seeking feedback from others. Sometimes, the simplest things can serve as potent reminders of our own existence, grounding us in the present moment and anchoring us to our true selves.

How it is for me

In “Mindset Kitchen” episodes, self-awareness takes centre stage as a crucial ingredient for catalysing change in our lives. It’s the cornerstone upon which we build the edifice of our dreams and aspirations. Through my own experiences, I’ve come to view self-awareness not just as a tool but as a game—a game where I am the player, and my thoughts are the opponents.

I chuckle inwardly at the audacity of a negative thought that dares to linger and undermine my progress. “Oh no, no, no,” I think to myself, “I see through your facade. You won’t derail me.” It’s in those moments of confrontation that I dive deeper, probing the root cause of my apprehensions.

“Why do I have this thought?” I muse. Perhaps it stems from fear—the fear of venturing into uncharted territory, the fear of failure. But instead of succumbing to fear, I choose to confront it head-on. I seek guidance from others, educate myself through research, and take that daunting first step into the unknown.

And herein lies the beauty of self-awareness—it’s not about avoiding failure but embracing it wholeheartedly. Failure, I remind myself, is not the enemy but a wise teacher, illuminating the path to success through its lessons. With each setback, I glean invaluable insights that propel me forward on my journey.

“I’ll worry about it later when it comes,” I reassure myself, feeling the weight lift from my shoulders. There’s no need to dwell on hypothetical scenarios or agonise over uncertainties. Instead, I focus on the present moment, trusting in my ability to navigate whatever challenges lie ahead.

As always there are challenges

Indeed, the journey of self-awareness is not without its challenges. There are days when our thoughts bombard us relentlessly, especially when fatigue weighs heavy upon our shoulders or when the tendrils of stress tighten their grip around us. It’s on these weary days, when our resolve is tested, that our resilience and self-awareness are truly forged.

In the midst of exhaustion and overwhelm, it’s tempting to succumb to the chaos of our minds, to let negative thoughts run rampant. But it’s precisely during these moments of adversity that the seeds of growth are sown. By confronting our inner demons head-on, by refusing to be swayed by the tumult of our emotions, we emerge stronger and more self-aware than ever before.

I’ve found that as we mature, this process often becomes more intuitive, more ingrained in our daily lives. Yet, even as adults, we can still miss the subtle nuances of our inner landscape. That’s why keep cultivating a repertoire of techniques to sharpen your self-awareness within every situation.

Sometimes, the simplest practices yield the most profound results. Whether it’s through mindfulness exercises, journaling, or engaging in meaningful conversations with loved ones, I continually seek out opportunities to deepen my understanding of myself. And I’ve discovered that even the most mundane aspects of daily life—the gentle rhythm of breathing, the warmth of sunlight on my skin—can serve as potent reminders of my own existence.

So what are my favourite ways to deveop self awareness?

There are many, and you may find some resonate with you more than others. Regardless, I wish you luck on your journey. Remember, it’s not about reaching a destination but about embracing the process and the profound impact it will have on your life and the lives of those around you.

One of my favourite method: Meditation

While it may not be for everyone, it has been transformative for me. Meditation is about quieting the noise of our inner chatter and redirecting our focus. For me, it’s also a spiritual practice, a way to connect with my guides and explore other realms. But meditation doesn’t have to be complex. Simply close your eyes, focus on your breath or something that brings you joy, and observe the thoughts that arise. When you notice your mind wandering, gently guide it back to your focal point. It’s a practice of patience and persistence.

Meditation helps us become the masters of our thoughts rather than being controlled by them. Our thoughts shape our reality, and by cultivating mindfulness, we can shape a reality filled with positivity and love. It’s a foolproof process that, with dedication, yields profound results.

Whether you choose meditation or another method, self-awareness is a journey of exploration and growth. Embrace it wholeheartedly, and you’ll discover a world of possibilities within yourself.

Journalling

Another powerful method for cultivating self-awareness is through WRITING, particularly JOURNALLING.

The act of putting pen to paper has a profound effect on our brain, diminishing the intensity of our reactions and allowing our emotions to unfold more freely. By externalising our thoughts, we gain a new perspective, viewing ourselves from the vantage point of an outsider—a key aspect of self-awareness.

Begin with a simple process: when you encounter a thought that doesn’t serve you, take a moment to jot it down. Then, delve deeper. Ask yourself why this thought arose, how often it recurs, and what impact it has on your well-being. Transform this exploration into a project—a commitment to not let negative thoughts overpower you. They may come and go, but you refuse to let them linger.

Make journaling a regular practice, whether daily or weekly. Create action plans to address intrusive thoughts, turning them into opportunities for growth and self-discovery. As you revisit your entries, even just a month later, you’ll be amazed by the progress you’ve made. That thought that once held sway over your mind now seems inconsequential—a testament to the power of self-awareness.

Indeed, this process is nothing short of magical. It steers you onto a path of true transformation, one where you reclaim control over your thoughts and emotions. But it requires perseverance and discipline. Yet, every ounce of effort is worth it, for it’s your life, and it’s precious.

Feedback

Another valuable approach to enhancing self-awareness is seeking feedback from those around you. Ask your friends, colleagues, and even your parents to honestly share their perceptions of you in various emotional states—happiness, anger, stress. It can be a daunting task, requiring vulnerability and an open mind, but the insights gained are invaluable.

Approach this endeavour with sincerity, emphasising the importance of their honesty and integrity. Encourage them to be candid, assuring them that their perspectives are valued and will be received with gratitude. Document their feedback meticulously, treating it as a sacred record of your journey of self-discovery.

I must admit, the process of receiving feedback can be both enlightening and uncomfortable. Some insights may surprise you, challenging preconceived notions about yourself. Yet, it’s often the uncomfortable truths that yield the most profound learnings.

Moreover, pay attention to the positive feedback as well. It’s not uncommon for others to see qualities in us that we overlook or downplay. Embrace these affirmations with humility and gratitude, recognising the inherent value in acknowledging our strengths.

Recently, someone remarked that the way I carry myself speaks volumes about my character. Intrigued by this observation, I delved deeper, seeking to understand the underlying reasons behind their perception. It’s moments like these that offer glimpses into aspects of ourselves that we may not fully comprehend, prompting further introspection and growth.

Self acceptance and being objective

Ok, I could go on for a little longer, but my other two favourites are self-acceptance and objectivity.

Self-acceptance is really a cornerstone of self-awareness, yet it’s often a journey fraught with challenges. Like many, I’ve grappled with self-criticism and the relentless pursuit of perfection. But through introspection and reflection, I’ve learned to embrace my flaws and imperfections as integral parts of who I am. To me it was also a necessary ingredient for the success of Mindset Kitchen.

Accepting oneself fully, with all our complexities and idiosyncrasies, is an act of self-love. It’s about recognising that we are worthy and deserving of acceptance just as we are. This doesn’t mean complacency or stagnation; rather, it’s a springboard for growth and self-discovery.

I’ve found that self-love accelerates the journey of self-awareness. When we accept ourselves unconditionally, we free ourselves from the shackles of comparison and self-doubt. Instead of fixating on what we’re not, we focus on nurturing the aspects of ourselves that make us unique and extraordinary.

Again that can be done by journaling or meditation to simply acknowledge our worthiness. By affirming our strengths and embracing our vulnerabilities, we cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

Objectivity is another vital component of self-awareness. It’s the ability to assess situations with clarity and impartiality, free from the influence of our emotions. Self-awareness empowers us to observe our thoughts and feelings without being swept away by them, enabling us to make decisions based on rationality rather than impulsivity.

When we approach challenges with objectivity, we’re better equipped to navigate them with grace and poise. We’re able to discern fact from fiction, truth from illusion, and act accordingly. Rather than reacting reflexively based on our emotions, we respond thoughtfully, drawing upon our inner wisdom and insight.

Cultivating objectivity requires practice and discipline. It involves honing our ability to detach ourselves from the immediacy of our emotions and adopt a broader perspective. Through mindfulness techniques and introspective practices, we can cultivate a greater sense of objectivity, enhancing our capacity for self-awareness and personal growth.

Many other ways, whatever suits you! Make it fun...

Indeed, the journey of self-awareness offers a plethora of pathways for exploration and growth. In addition to the methods mentioned above, there are countless other strategies to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

One powerful approach is to write down our strengths and weaknesses. By taking inventory of our abilities and areas for improvement, we gain clarity on where we excel and where we can focus our efforts. Personality tests, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or the Enneagram, can also provide valuable insights into our unique traits and tendencies.

Expanding our minds through reading and learning is another effective way to enhance self-awareness. Immerse yourself in books that challenge your perspectives, broaden your horizons, and stimulate your intellect. Embrace new experiences, try different hobbies, and step outside your comfort zone. Each new endeavour offers an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth.

Confronting our fears is another powerful catalyst for self-awareness. Whether it’s fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown, facing our fears head-on empowers us to transcend our limitations and unlock our full potential. Take risks, push yourself beyond your perceived boundaries, and embrace the exhilarating journey of self-exploration.

Above all, love and laughter are essential ingredients in the recipe for self-awareness. Cultivate love for yourself and others, fostering compassion, empathy, and kindness in all your interactions. And don’t forget to laugh—find joy in the simple pleasures of life, embrace humour as a source of healing and connection, and savor the moments of laughter that bring lightness to your soul.

Becoming a mother has undoubtedly accelerated my journey of self-awareness in ways I never imagined. Suddenly, my focus shifted from solely understanding myself to also understanding how I can be the best mother for my son.

Parenthood is a profound teacher, constantly challenging me to confront my own strengths, weaknesses, and deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour. It’s a journey of self-discovery that unfolds in real-time, as I navigate the joys and complexities of raising a child.

One of the most transformative aspects of motherhood has been learning to prioritise self-care. I’ve come to realise that in order to be the best mother I can be, I must first take care of myself—physically, emotionally, and mentally. This means carving out time for rest, relaxation, and activities that nourish my soul.

It has heightened my awareness of the importance of setting boundaries and modelling healthy behaviours. I strive to cultivate an environment of love, respect, and open communication in our home, where my son feels safe to express himself and learn from his experiences.

Motherhood has taught me the value of presence. In a world filled with distractions and demands, I’ve learned to prioritise quality time with my son, cherishing the moments we share together and being fully present in his life.

But perhaps the greatest lesson motherhood has imparted is the importance of self-compassion. There are days when I fall short, when I make mistakes or feel overwhelmed by the challenges of parenting. In those moments, I remind myself that I am human, and that it’s okay to not have all the answers. What matters most is that I approach motherhood with love, patience, and an unwavering commitment to growth.

As I continue on this journey of self-discovery, I’m reminded that self-awareness is not a destination but a way of being. It’s about embracing the fullness of who we are, with all our flaws and imperfections, and finding beauty in the journey itself. And as we navigate the twists and turns of life, may we always remember that true growth begins with the courage to look inward and embrace the depths of our own humanity.

Nurturing Self Awareness