Many of us view self-reflection as something that should be done once a year to determine our New Year resolutions- as pointless and a waste of time.We are often focused on getting ahead and moving forward in life that we don’t take the time to slow down and be one with our own thoughts. What if we made self-reflection part of our everyday routine?
Self-reflection is the process of looking within one’s self and carefully examining behavior or beliefs in a mindful way. Engaging in deliberate thinking like this allows you to develop a deeper awareness of your mental and emotional states. It can be one of the best ways to increase positivity, shift your mindset, and develop a deeper connection with yourself.
So Why is Self-Reflection Important?
Personal growth
Self-reflection is imperative for personal growth. The only way to know where you need to improve and where there is room for growth within your life is to examine yourself.
Self-awareness
In order to improve yourself, you will need to know where you are now and where you are going. Self-awareness gives you a clearer understanding of your strengths, weaknesses, and goals. That is necessary in order to fully consider how to get to where you want to be.
Change and progress
Self-reflection allows you to look back on the past several months or years and see how far you have come. Tracking progress and realizing the improvements you have already made can be motivate you to continue moving forward.
It challenges your thoughts.
You may often find yourself ruminating on negative thoughts, decreasing your self-esteem and self-confidence. Thoughts are not facts, though. When you take the time to reflect on your irrational thoughts and challenge them, you will find that many of the negative things you tell yourself about yourself are not true.
Questions for Self-Reflection
What are my values?
In what ways do my words and actions reflect or fail to reflect my values?
What are areas in which I’m doing well and what are areas in which I could improve?
How am I caring for myself so that I am mentally and physically at my best?
What have I learned about myself today (this week, this month, this year)?
If you want to improve your life and learn more about self-reflection for personal growth, contact our office at 832.421.8714 or admin@amywinecounseling.com to schedule an appointment.
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