Self-reflection comes with the understanding of ‘The Power of You.’
You have the power to love yourself so much that you don’t need anyone else to love you. You have the power to represent yourself with the best version of yourself.
Psychologists and Mental Health Counsellors stress the importance of self-reflection quite a lot.
A study conducted on The Importance of Self-Reflection and Awareness for Human Development in Hard Times discussed the practice of Buddhist mindfulness and westernized forms of mindfulness, among other techniques, which could raise the bar for self-awareness and increase strength during tough times, which can inadvertently help heal from trauma.
What Exactly Is Self-Reflection?
Self-reflection is essentially considered ‘turning inward’ and introspecting your values, actions, decisions, and how they affect you and the people around you. It almost always helps in attaining answers to questions you may have had for a while.
One example of self-reflection is journaling. When you journal, you essentially follow one rule: let it all out. Letting it all out allows you to blurt out everything you wish to say, things you may never say in front of people, and also write about your day.
When you journal, you focus on letting it all out. Many a time, doing that is what helps you find answers precisely.
According to Healthline, some studies prove that looking inward can help strengthen our levels of emotional intelligence, making life much easier for us.
Self-reflection can help you understand yourself better and why you do the things you do. This is also a great way to practice self-evolution and become a better version of yourself.
How Do I Practice Self-Reflection?
Self-reflection is an extremely personal practice; hence, there is no one right way to do it. You can choose what you’re comfortable with and, more importantly, choose whom you want to share the results of your practice with.
Let’s look at some ways you can practice self-reflection. If you think of any new ideas that stem from the practice’s essence, feel free to go for them.
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Journal
We’ve discussed journaling above as well. You can choose to journal about anything and everything. Remember: it’s a safe space, and you make the rules.
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Practice Meditation
Connecting your mind with your body via meditation can be a great way to practice self-reflection. When the mind and body connect, according to This is Calmer, you slow down and give your mind the space to focus and think about what’s important.
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Do What Calms You Down
Do what calms you down: this will help you slow down and soak at the moment. You could go for any activity that helps you stay calm and connect with your inner self. This could be anything from writing to reading to taking a walk to spending time with nature. If you feel activities such as yoga or breathing exercises help you, go for it.
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Ask Yourself Questions
One of the most effective ways of reflecting on oneself is by asking yourself questions. When you talk to yourself, ask yourself questions, and also answer them, you gain control of your present and acknowledge the abilities you have. This can also help you understand yourself better.
Conclusion
Self-reflection is important because it helps polish yourself into a better version. It is a contributive factor that can help you achieve your goals and set healthy boundaries and expectations that will lead you forward more cohesively.
Finding inspiration in what we do is key to a fulfilling life. Some people don’t know what they want; others don’t know what they’re looking for. They keep looking without knowing what the search is leading to. We are all here in this space – some of us loosen less than others. For those who are looking for some sort of guidance, pathway, or enlightenment, inspire and create.
Appendix
- Image Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-in-white-dress-shirt-sitting-on-black-and-white-tube-chair-931887/
- ‘The Power of You’ by Ana Castano: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMyiIGXriPo
- Study – Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/326308607_The_Importance_of_Self-Reflection_and_Awareness_for_Human_Development_in_Hard_Times
- Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/time-for-some-self-reflection
- This is Calmer: https://www.thisiscalmer.com/blog/how-to-practise-self-reflection
