NURTURING SELF-AWARENESS

Manilka Ediriweera describes the multiple benefits of true self-awareness

More often than not, we like to think we know ourselves. But have you tried to understand yourself and felt that it’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack? That’s because we don’t necessarily know ourselves – not always.

Cultivating true self-awareness requires time and effort to peel back the layers, and let each one reveal something new. This is especially true in our fast-paced world where distractions lurk in every corner.

In this setting, reflecting on oneself or finding the time to do so may seem overwhelming. But self-awareness can help you navigate the chaos and noise.

At its core, self-awareness is about being conscious of your emotions at a deeper level. Why do you feel the way you do? And how do your emotions shape your reactions?

You need to try and understand who you are, and what makes you tick.

Picture this: you are the team lead in a meeting and aren’t happy with the direction the conversation is taking. You’re becoming more agitated and projecting negative energy. Your behaviour can impact the dynamic of the entire team, cause tension, stifle creativity and drain morale. That’s because you lack self-awareness.

Now recall a time when you worked with those who are self-aware. Not only were they attuned to the needs and feelings of others but also responsible, humble about their strengths, quick to own up to their mistakes, and mindful of how their words and actions can affect others.

If you had to choose from one of these personas, chances are that you’d pick the latter. After all, who wouldn’t want a person who brings out the best in everyone rather than someone who causes friction and dispute?

That’s why cultivating self-awareness is more important than ever.

This understanding offers many benefits that can enrich both our personal and professional lives, and range from enabling us to respond better, master our emotions and much more.

It’s also the cornerstone of strong relationships as such an understanding lays the foundation for deeper connections. By working on effective communication, we can convey our thoughts and feelings, while sparking creativity and confidence.

So self-awareness isn’t only about personal growth; it’s also about becoming the kind of person and leader who uplifts others, and drives success. But this isn’t something you can achieve like flipping a light switch. It takes time, effort and willingness on your part.

And since you’re on autopilot most of the time, it could be challenging to understand why you act the way you do – and this will make the journey a tricky one!

Here are some ways to cultivate your self-awareness.

CURIOSITY Your curiosity is what guides you in your journey to self-discovery. The mind and body are territories waiting to be explored; each corner holds the potential for revelation and growth.

But how far you go along this journey of developing self-awareness and understanding will depend on how far you’re willing to explore and experience.

At the same time, be ready to let your walls down – and let go of being judgemental, defensiveness and the urge to protect your­self. Be open to seeing yourself through fresh eyes, different from what you’ve always assumed… even if it means seeing yourself in a less than positive light in certain instances.

COMPREHENSION Often, we tend to spend too much time regretting what we can’t do instead of focussing on everything we can do.

Since self-aware individuals have a good understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, they can navigate challenges with each other and seek support where needed.

MINDFULNESS Practise mindfulness and be reflective. Allow yourself to live in the moment, and tune into your emotions and thoughts.

Being attuned to the ebb and flow of your inner thoughts helps you become increasingly aware of your reactions and behavioural patterns. This contributes to being controlled, conscious and thoughtful when making decisions while also savouring the pleasures of life.

Set aside a little time every day to reflect on your thoughts and feelings so you can learn how to respond more constructively in the future.

FEEDBACK Don’t be afraid to seek feedback from those around you, whether it’s family, friends or even coworkers. This will help you see your strengths and weaknesses from different perspectives, and identify areas for improvement while shedding light on what you choose to ignore.

It takes courage to seek feedback; but it’s also an acknowledgement of your natural biases towards yourself – and it helps you have more objective views.

As Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu once said, “it is wisdom to know others; it is enlightenment to know oneself.”

With patience, perseverance and self-love, you will find yourself cultivating self-awareness – and an understanding of yourself.

Don’t be afraid to seek feedback