Know Yourself, Change Your Life: The Power of Self-Awareness

Do you ever wonder, "Who am I, really?"

It's an important question to ask...

...because it unlocks the door to greater happiness, success, and stronger connections.

You must start with getting to know yourself–like, the real you.

Asking this question leads to a journey called self-awareness....

...But some people sleepwalk through life, never truly seeing how impactful (or how much of a hot mess!) they can be.

This is to help you avoid being them, and tap into YOU.

What Self-Awareness Isn't

Thinking about yourself does not mean you know yourself.

Becoming self-aware is about seeing yourself honestly and as subjectively as possible.

Think of it like a mirror...

...But instead of showing how you look on the outside, it shows how you are on the inside. It means digging deep to know your strengths, weaknesses, and what makes you tick.

The Power of Seeing Yourself Clearly

Self-awareness is uncomfortable at times. Many people hate change. Even if it's for the better.

And sometimes our pride gets in the way – it's hard to admit where we can improve.

Here is why it's worth pushing through...

Research states that those who are more self-aware:

• Feel happier and more content.

• Build stronger relationships.

• Become more confident.

• Become more capable leaders

• Are better communicators

• Build more confidence

Quite the list of benefits, right?

Here's the progression in a nutshell:

As Nelson Mandela said:

Self-awareness means self-development. Self-development means higher levels of achievement.

Success Story: Oprah's Transformation

Oprah Winfrey is known for her empathy and deep connection with others. But this wasn't always the case. Through painful self-examination, including confronting difficult childhood experiences, she developed an understanding of herself that allowed her to grow and connect authentically. This led her to create a media empire.

My Story: Looking Back...

I'm an introvert, so I mostly enjoy being alone with my thoughts. I reflect on the past. This reflection has allowed me to notice patterns and former ways of thinking that I no longer hold and see the gradual progression of maturity.

Looking at the past is painful at times. Remembering events you wish you didn't. Moments you look at now and see the lack of maturity back then, the unknowing pain you caused, and the opportunities you missed.

But that pain brings growth.

Wisdom will say, "Let's not make that mistake again." Pride will say, "It wasn't my fault." Reflecting on those things led me to grow.

It's not always reflecting on what went wrong. Reflecting on what has gone right and why is just as important. Knowing what is good and doubling down on it makes the path to improvement exponential.

We don't reflect to beat ourselves up. We reflect so we become wiser.

Steps To Self-awareness:

• Personality Tests: Find some cool ones online (I personally like the 16 personality test )

• Journal Time: Write about your day, feelings, and dreams. Notice patterns

• Reflection Time: Set aside a particular time each week for thinking time.

• Honest Opinions: Ask friends, co-workers, and family what they think of you (be open to constructive criticism)

Commit

You're already here, seeking knowledge and growth. That's a decisive first step.

Now it's time to take the next one....

...Commit to exploring your strengths.

...Commit to those late-night journal sessions.

...Commit to the hard work that brings extraordinary rewards.

Your future self thanks you.