selfconnection

Self-connection is a term used in psychology, wellness, and personal development to describe the degree to which a person feels connected to their own inner life. It involves awareness of emotions, values, needs, and identity, and the extent to which one acts in alignment with what feels authentic. It is distinct from self-esteem, which concerns overall evaluations of self-worth.

The concept encompasses several interrelated components. Core elements include awareness of inner experiences (emotions, thoughts, bodily signals), acceptance or nonjudgmental stance toward those experiences, and behavioral alignment with core values and authentic identity. A strong self-connection supports coherence between what a person believes, feels, and does, and it can reduce internal conflict and self-criticism.

Cultivation of self-connection typically involves practices that promote mindfulness and reflection. Techniques such as mindful observation of emotions, regular journaling, values clarification, and compassionate self-talk are commonly recommended. Therapeutic approaches that emphasize values-guided action, such as acceptance and commitment therapy, can also foster self-connection by helping people live in accord with their authentic goals.

In research, scholars have proposed scales or indicators to assess self-connection and have explored its associations with well-being, emotional regulation, resilience, and lower burnout. However, there is no single universally accepted definition or measurement, and the construct overlaps with related ideas such as self-awareness, authenticity, and self-compassion. Cultural context and subjective interpretation can affect how self-connection is understood and pursued.

Related concepts include self-awareness, authenticity, self-compassion, and mindfulness.