Are you feeling busy, distracted and exhausted? Even after the emotionally overwhelming year we’ve all just experienced, we haven’t slowed down and taken time for ourselves. Further, our society doesn’t value the practice of introspection, the observation of one’s own mental and emotional processes. Introspection, or self-reflection, is the willingness to recognize and determine your “old programming” that no longer serves you so that you can build new “programming.” How this can be done? With a calm mind to start.
How do I calm my mind?
Having a calm mind will allow you to concentrate and feel more relaxed. This practice will vary person to person, but here are some suggestions:
- Take a few deep breaths; practice breath work
- Stretch your body
- Go for a walk; move your body
- Journal, meditate, pray
How do I practice self-reflection?
When your mind is calm, allow yourself to draw inward and think deeply on the issue, emotion or memory at hand. To help, ask yourself:
- What does this make me think?
- How does it make me feel?
- How does it hold me back?
It’s important not to judge yourself. Be honest with yourself so that you’re not tempted to imagine how you should feel. Don’t be afraid to dig deeper! You’re trying to access the root of the issue and you will most likely come across resistance. This is your ego/mind trying to protect you from uncomfortable and harmful emotions.
Additionally, you can ask yourself questions in order to get to know yourself better whether or not you’re currently working through an issue. Start with these:
- What am I really scared of?
- Am I holding on to something that I can let go of?
- When did I last push passed my comfort zone?
- What do I want most in life?
- When was the last time I made someone smile?
Why should I practice self-reflection?
With self-reflection comes self-awareness. You’ll begin to see your thoughts, behaviors, emotions and reactions in real time as you experience them. You can determine which ones bother you, don’t serve you or harm you and learn to let them go. By slowing down, calming your mind, and asking yourself substantial questions to draw on old issues, you can then learn to shift your behaviors, thoughts and reactions to ones that better represent you, your values and beliefs.
The more you reflect, the easier you’ll be able to hold yourself accountable. This not only benefits you directly, but it also benefits those you surround yourself with. You may even inspire them to be more introspective!
What are benefits to introspection?
A self-aware person can expect myriad of benefits, but here are some that may be true for you:
- Clarity
- Self-control
- Less stress and anxiety
- Higher self-esteem and pride
- Increased emotional intelligence
- Easier time coping with challenges
- Appropriate reactions to situations
- Realize their potential and become more aligned
Remember, slowing down, calming your mind and regular self-reflection may come with resistance from your mind, your family, even your job. Stay strong–this time is essential for your mental health. It’s okay to start small and always be gracious and patient with yourself. You’re in the process of changing how you think, feel, and behave. You’re changing your life!
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