“We do not learn from experience. We learn from reflecting on experience.” – John Dewey
What is self reflection?
The ability to pause and reflect your life, behaviour and beliefs through self awareness and then working to change it is called self reflection!
Where does it come from? It comes through mindfulness, when you attend the present events attentively and actively without being judgemental.
What are the benefits of Self-reflection?
Self reflection strengthens you emotionally because when you focus inwards, your mind finds the best ways to solve the issues with mindfulness.
It brings clarity of thoughts and leaves behind the doubts that hold you as your false beliefs, it can also spark insight which can alter the way you see yourselves and those around you. It also provides a different point of view.
If you feel stuck amidst the chaos of life, and the things are not working in your favor …it’s time for self reflection and getting through the odd situation by responding thoughtfully.
“Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and over again but expecting different results.” – Albert Einstein
How to self reflect?
- Sit in a quiet place
- Close your eyes and picture the event that you want to self reflect
- Silently visualize the event as a third-person
- Examine your actions by asking questions to yourself
- Identify the changes that you feel suitable for those actions
Ask questions to yourself in the form of self talk, such as:
- Am I living true to myself?
- What do I stand for?
- What’s one way I could be a better person?
- What is holding me back?
- What’s one of my biggest fears?
- How can I overcome it?
- Am I putting enough effort into my relationships?
- Am I achieving the goals that I’ve set for myself?
- Am I letting matters that are out of my control stress me out?
- What could I have done better today?
When you Bridge the space between your words and actions and your thoughts and emotions you come very close to yourself (self awareness).
In simple words, focus Inward by simply starting with a short and simple guided meditation everyday at any time of the day to analyse your thoughts, feelings, and actions. So with self reflection you not only gain a better understanding of your thoughts, & feelings, but you also become aware of your strengths, weaknesses and your driving force.
According to mindfulness coaches, Self-reflection, if practiced correctly and regularly, can enable you to make better decisions and can help you to lead a stress free life!
Disclaimer – This article is a personal view of the author.
