Self-awareness is a psychological state where one focuses on themselves, and more specifically, their traits, behaviours, and feelings. Being self-aware allows us to have a better understanding of ourselves, and thus build on areas of strength and work on areas of weakness.
Self-awareness is a personal experience, so it won’t look exactly the same for everyone. That being said, we asked some of the Bluearth coaching staff what self-awareness means to them and how they practice it in their everyday life.
Here’s what they had to say.
Mitch Barrow
Coach
What does self-awareness mean to you?
For me, it really means being deliberate and intentional rather than just being habitual with your thoughts, actions and behaviors. Reflection is a big part of self awareness. Examining how you do things, how you respond and most importantly how you feel during good times and bad.
Less automatic and more present!
How does being self-aware impact your life?
Better health, deeper relationships, curiosity and clear understanding of what I value and what’s important to me and those I love.
What are some ways you practice self-awareness?
I have a meditation practice in different forms. I avoid being too busy so I have space and capacity to be mindful and practice it.
I try to surround myself with conscious and aware people and avoid those who are unconscious. (That’s why I work for Bluearth!)
I’ve built my life around surfing which brings a deep peace and satisfaction. Awareness goes hand in hand with this.
I also have a job that facilitates dropping into awareness all day. It’s nice.
Sarah Keegan
Program Coordinator & Coach
What does self-awareness mean to you?
Being aware and confident of who I am, what my strengths and weaknesses are, and what my traits, behaviours and values are. Being aware of the physical feelings that I feel in my body, and what they are in response to. For example, my heart is absolutely racing right now, what is making me feel that way, why am I feeling anxious? The ability to pause in that moment, name it, breathe and respond from a clearer and calmer state.
How does being self-aware impact your life?
I find that, as I grow in self-awareness and can look at myself without judgement, I am more open to areas of myself that need attention and development, and I am often really excited for that journey of personal growth.
What are some ways you practice self-awareness?
I intentionally stop during the day, usually whilst outside, to pause and reflect on the day so far, and what is to come. I find gratitude is the best place to start from. Bringing my focus back to the breath regularly throughout the day. I have a stretching practice that I run through in the evening before bed.
Sarah Argus
Regional Project Officer
What does self-awareness mean to you?
To see myself clearly and acknowledge my thoughts and actions.
How does being self-aware impact your life?
When I engage in self-awareness or self-evaluation it allows me to notice if I am thinking and acting the best way I can. Am I allowing my thoughts (that I cannot control) determine my actions.
What are some ways you practice self-awareness?
Daily mindfulness practice, remembering this quote from the Dalai Lama:
“There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called Yesterday and the other is called Tomorrow. Today is the right day to Love, Believe, Do and mostly Live.
If I allow myself to get stuck on yesterday or tomorrow I can’t be my best self in the present.
Matt Dillon
National Operations Manager
What does self-awareness mean to you and how does it impact your life?
Self-awareness to me is understanding my true strengths, weaknesses, and vulnerabilities. I believe it’s about honestly, taking time to look at your inner self and learning to accept and practice how you self-regulate and choose to respond with your feelings and emotions with different situations that you encounter throughout life.
What are some ways you practice self-awareness?
I have my own practice with breathing and meditation that I carry out daily generally first thing in the morning for 15 minutes. I find this personally a great way to observe my own thoughts, feelings, and emotions without judgement.
Most evenings, I also like to look inwards at the end of the day before I go to sleep, I like to centre myself around the quality of my breathing to allow space to relax and observe.
These different perspectives make it evident that being self-aware can have a significant impact on your life. If you want to learn how to increase your own self-awareness, have a read of our blog covering nine ways to do so.