The ability to focus on how my actions, thoughts and emotions align or do not align with my internal standards is referred to as self-awareness. Self-awareness helps me to accurately interpret my actions, feeling and thoughts objectively. Without self-awareness, self-assessment in personal growth and development becomes a challenge. This is because I become dependent on external factors to make life decisions. For example, I may choose a career path that is highly spoken off even when my personality does not align with it. This is one of the reasons we have teachers who would have been better in farming or driving but they chose teaching on the basis of job security.
Here are other benefits of self-awareness;
Decision making
A person who has clarity of their thoughts and feelings is much more able to make decisions that produce a fulfilling life. One is able to choose a career that aligns with their values. I choose the coaching profession because I value gladness. When I see suffering, my mind engages in a search for solutions to alleviate the suffering. I feel excited when I make someone glad.
Better Relationships
With clarity of thoughts and feelings, I seek to listen to others before making any conclusion about why they do what they do. People feel understood and accepted. Relationships form with everyone feeling that they belong as they are not judged. People are always glad to have me in their circles.
Emotional Regulation
When I focus on my thoughts and emotions, I am able to control how I respond to my own actions or those of others. I may feel angry when I hear a story of murder as it reminds me of my loved one who was murdered. I am able to sit in my anger and allow myself to go through the pain without drama.
Self-awareness is an important skill for effective leaders. To start your journey of self-awareness, book a free clarity call here. You will be glad indeed!
Photo by Jen Theodore on Unsplash
