One of the most valuable assets we can have as a person is self–awareness.
When we are self-aware, we are kinder to ourselves, know when we need a break, and better understand our strengths and weaknesses. I’ve realised over time that if I’m not particularly self-aware, I will push myself too hard and not recognise when my emotions or thoughts are dictating to me negatively.
Self-awareness is key to emotional intelligence. As we connect with our thoughts and emotions in a deeper way the strength and depth of our relationships increases.
Here are some additional benefits to encourage you to be more self-aware:
1: We Play To our Strengths –While we can be competent in many areas, it is tough to be great at everything. Being self-aware allows us to focus our time and energies on what we do best. The result is we feel better about ourselves and gain the ability and perspective to love the person God made us be.
2: We help other play to their strengths –The world is full of talented people. When we find out how we are “wired”, it helps us recognize how others are excelling. We don’t have to compete, but we can complement and encourage one another.
3: We are authentically happy rather than pretending we are. Being self-aware helps us be aware of negative thoughts and emotions, allowing us to choose to focus on and emphasize positive ones and deal with the cause of any issues we may be having. Neurological studies reveal toxic thoughts can be “unstuck” from our brains and replaced with ones we want to have. But first, we need to be self-aware about what we are thinking.
“Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)
4: We Think Before We Act – Being self-aware means we are more aware of our emotions and responses. We gain the ability to act and respond consciously instead of reacting, or should I say “over-reacting” to people and events.
Today, if you realize that you haven’t been in touch with your thoughts, emotions, or spiritual and physical state, take some time to “check-in” on yourself over the next few days.
Ask God to reveal what has been going on in your inner world; give your concerns to him and reap the benefits of renewed self-awareness.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for who you have made me be. I want to be able to have real relationships and connections with others and to work to my strengths. Would you please help me to be more self aware and to deal with any issues and thinking so that I can live my best life. In Jesus Name Amen
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