Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch
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By: Carey Robey, Often I ask my clients during session how much time they spend self-reflecting. The answer? A confused “Never?” We dive into a discussion on self-awareness and how important it is to be in touch with one’s own emotional state, perspective, thoughts, and feelings. Far too frequently clients tell me they do not […]
Often I ask my clients during session how much time they spend self-reflecting. The answer? A confused “Never?” We dive into a discussion on self-awareness and how important it is to be in touch with one’s own emotional state, perspective, thoughts, and feelings. Far too frequently clients tell me they do not have this level of awareness or even think on these kinds of things; but, when we are self-aware we are engaging in and working towards deepening our understanding of ourselves which increases our personal development.
There are different ways to look at self-awareness. We can be thinking of a solution-focused approach where we are contemplating how to reach our goals, solve a problem, or attack a challenge. One can also have awareness in a deeper sense- a more self-focused approach in which we are trying to have an understanding of our thoughts, moods, and feelings.
When we are able to be self-aware, we are able to have a greater understanding of our internal and external world, notice signals around us, objectively respond, and have a greater understanding of the impact we have on others and why we are the way we are. Self-awareness is about understanding the reasons for emotional experience rather than just the emotional experience itself. When we can analyze our experiences, we can learn from them.
How Do We Become More Self-AwareSo how does one go about knowing thyself? Self-awareness is achieved by being introspective; one must spend time reflecting on their experience. Our mind is constantly going so one easy way to start engaging in self-awareness is to choose what you tune into. What is helpful and what is not? Are you ruminating on anything? Consider why you are thinking or acting in a certain way and try to be objective.
Many times, people do not take a step back to consider what may be affecting their mood or behavior. Taking a moment to do this increases our insight. Engaging in mindfulness practices can be helpful in focusing on the present and increasing introspection. Notice your thoughts and consider why you might be having them, but be careful not to judge.
Be curious and ask yourself deep questions. Sometimes deep questions lead to deep answers and I would urge you to not be afraid to be honest with yourself; remember we are being objective, not judgmental. Don’t hesitate to check in with yourself often. Try journaling, meditation, or nature walks as these activities can assist in getting you to a state where you can open up and reflect.
Profile of a runner resting breathing deeply fresh air outstretching arms at sunset
When one achieves self-awareness, many benefits can be experienced. It can have great effects on our mood and how we interact with the world around us. It can enable you to have greater empathy and understanding that while we have our own thoughts and perspective, so too do others. This understanding can help improve relationships and communication.
Self-awareness can also lead one to have a greater ability to understand and control impulses, as well as increase self-esteem. Self-awareness is an essential part in understanding yourself; when we learn about ourselves and how we experience, we can reach greater feelings of contentment. Sometimes looking inward can evoke negative feelings, so be mindful and take care of yourself. If you find that you are struggling with increasing awareness, or notice that awareness can at times lead to anxiety, reach out for help. Enjoy your journey inward.
If you would like to learn how to become more self-aware, the therapists at The Center at Cinco Ranch can help! To begin counseling in Katy, TX follow these three steps:
Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch we offer counseling services for people of all ages in areas including: counseling for kids, counseling for young adults, teen counseling, couples counseling, eating disorder treatment, men’s issues, women’s issues, anxiety treatment, depression therapy, family therapy, and group counseling. Our therapists strive to regularly post blogs. We provide helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. To learn more about our therapists and our counseling services, please reach out to the Counseling Center today!