selfdawareness

Self-awareness is the conscious knowledge of one's own character, feelings, motives, and desires. It involves an individual's ability to perceive themselves accurately and objectively. This understanding encompasses one's strengths and weaknesses, thoughts, emotions, values, and how these aspects influence their behavior and interactions with others. Developing self-awareness is often considered a cornerstone of personal growth and emotional intelligence.

There are generally two types of self-awareness: internal and external. Internal self-awareness refers to the clarity with which one sees their own values, passions, aspirations, fit with their environment, reactions, attitudes, behaviors, and strengths and weaknesses. High internal self-awareness is linked to greater happiness, confidence, and life satisfaction. External self-awareness, on the other hand, is about understanding how other people view you in terms of those same factors. It involves recognizing how your behavior and traits are perceived by others.

Practices that foster self-awareness include mindfulness meditation, journaling, seeking feedback from trusted individuals, and engaging in introspection. By regularly reflecting on one's thoughts, feelings, and actions, individuals can gain deeper insights into their inner world. This increased understanding can lead to better decision-making, improved relationships, and more effective goal attainment. It allows individuals to align their actions with their values and to make conscious choices rather than acting solely on impulse or habit.