Being self-aware

Self awareness

Key Takeaways:

Being authentic starts with self-awareness, which involves observing oneself objectively. We are born with awareness, which deepens as we grow, helping us understand our thoughts, feelings, words, and actions.

Consciousness is a part of your awareness that is shaped by the sources of influence in our everyday lives—parents, teachers, peers, and even society as a whole. It is how we normally experience ourselves and how we think we are perceived by the world around us.

Self-consciousness arises from a fear of rejection and involves making judgments about ourselves. This self-criticism is often harsh and repetitive, leading to negative self-talk and diminished self-worth.

Self-criticism drives us to seek approval and avoid rejection, hindering our authenticity. It prevents us from being our true selves and disrupts genuine relationships.

Despite the presence of the self-critic, we have the power to control our focus and actions. By observing ourselves from a distance, we can acknowledge our feelings and choose to be authentic.

Sources

TalentSprout (2016). Self Awareness [Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIhEMk7CZ-A&t=227s

Talent Sprout