In our everyday scrolling and swiping, we constantly run into influencers and marketing, sharing how we can live a full and purposeful existence. Self-awareness is a term that’s highlighted A LOT. But what exactly is it? Well, self-awareness can be described as one’s ability to understand our thoughts, feelings, motivations, and behaviors, and how these impact your life. It involves questioning assumptions and beliefs inherited from family, culture, and society. It’s NOT JUST a “self-thing” though. Healthy self-awareness extends outside of us as it fosters stronger connections, empathy, and perspective-taking in our relationships. The majority of us (95%) quickly raise our hands and say, “Oh yeah, self-awareness, check the box!” but how does it really shake out? Studies like those in the Harvard Business Review say that only 10-15% of us really are self-aware.
What are the benefits of exercising that self-awareness muscle?
- Being better able to manage and regulate your emotions
- Better communication
- Better decision-making skills
- Improved relationships
- Higher levels of happiness
- More confidence
How do we increase self-awareness? Here are three helpful ways.
- Clinically speaking, the most effective method for self-awareness is to pause, and do a brief check-in to what’s happening for you in this moment. How are you feeling right now? What is driving this feeling? Try this for 5-6 times a day. Journaling can help capture those experiences and look for themes.
- Find out what narratives we have about ourselves and the world. Narratives, a.k.a., the stories we tell ourselves” refer to the inner storyline we create and follow. This narrative is based on our beliefs, values, and experiences; it shapes how we view the world and interpret events. These stories can be positive and empowering; others may be too rigid or narrow, leading to negative perceptions. Once we identify and understand these narratives, we can work to change them and live more fulfilling lives.
- Ask those around you for feedback. Feedback allows us insight into how others perceive us and can shrink the gap between how we see ourselves and how others see us. Some great questions can be – “how do you see me as a person? (kind / stoic / quiet / etc.) or “What is something that I could be doing differently to show up as a better ______ (partner/ co-worker/ friend / etc.)”
Let us know if we can help you slow down for those personal check-ins or help you examine your own narratives. Interested in scheduling a time? Contact Dr. Chrisman here.
