A journey of self-discovery can be life long, and for many, life altering. It’s exciting to think that we all still have much to learn about the person we should actually know the very best – ourselves! Back in the 20th century, we referred to this kind of soul searching as “finding ourselves”. But for hundreds of years before, people were doing the same thing. In fact, our focus on introspection has been around as long as humanity. Luckily for us there are many strategies to help enlighten us. And one mental exercise that can be absolutely life changing!
A Mental Exercise That Can Be Life Changing
So, this concept of figuring out who we really are is not new. However, it certainly is one topic that continues to intrigue humans, no matter how long we live. Who doesn’t wonder:
- Who am I really?
- What would my ultimate future life look like?
- How can I be the most authentic version of myself?
So, we seem to keep on coming up with new ways to reach enlightenment, self-awareness and ultimately, nirvana. Or at least maybe get a clue!
Keeping it Fresh
Each year, I research new approaches and techniques intended to help us become more self-aware and also become more accepting of ourselves. When I come across something new or interesting, I update old posts to help spread the word.
Even if something doesn’t seem like a good personal fit for me, I know other people may benefit from a different approach or thought process.
It’s interesting stuff to read, and I always come away with a new idea or approach I want to try.
I find studying this subject to be enjoyable, but it’s also helpful to me in my work. Which these days focuses on helping others define and make meaningful progress towards their own personal life goals, whatever they may be.
Sometimes, when I apply something and find it particularly effective, I write a new post all about it.
And that’s what I’m doing today.
Because this new technique, this new approach to figuring out “who am I really?” has provided me with some fantastic guard rails. And a great tool to help me decide what I spend my time on, and what I make a priority. All good stuff. Especially as we embark on a brand-new year!
One Mental Exercise That May Transform Your Life
So, as I mentioned above, I recently discovered a mental exercise that has the power to transform how we think about everything in our lives. I found this new approach to be particularly useful. I’ve been using my outcomes from my initial exercise as a touch stone for about six months now, and they have stood the test of time.
All in all, one hour, exceptionally well spent.
The approach is startling simple – but will take some time and reflection to complete. So, block out an hour to do some thinking when you’re ready to take this on. I guarantee the time you invest will be worth it!
Your task is straightforward: develop 10 sets of paired statements.
Each pair will be structured as follows: The first statement begins with the words “I want”. The second statement in each pair begins with the words “I don’t want”. The statements need to be connected. Each pair will help you identify both what you are inclined towards and that which you hope to minimize in your life. In short, completing this exercise will assist you in getting to know yourself. That will make you a more authentic you: the best you that you can be!
One Mental Exercise to Help You Get to Know Yourself: Example
To help you get started, I’m sharing examples of my statement pairs with you.
Joan’s Statement Pairs:
- Pair #1: I want to love and be loved without reservation. I don’t want to feel as though my relationships are conditional in either direction.
- Pair #2: I want to do fewer things that each matter more. I don’t want my life to be driven by a to-do list of meaningless activities.
- Pair #3: I want to reduce my resource requirements. I don’t want my life to be driven by financial obligations.
- Pair #4: I want to be healthy and strong. I don’t want to feel limited by what I can accomplish physically.
- Pair #5: I want to accept my shortcomings. I don’t want to beat myself up when I’m less than perfect.
- Pair #6: I want to know who I am. I don’t want to be uncertain or unclear about my own thoughts, opinions, and preferences.
What do you think? Could this approach inspire you? Start with one pair of statements. You will be amazed at how quickly you can come up with 10. If it feels good, keep going.
The hard part? Accepting what you learn about your own true self and begin to live accordingly.
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a health care executive and 15 years (and counting) as a consultant. The common thread through Joan’s professional life has been a commitment to lead, mentor and coach current and future leaders, and women from all walks of life. KindCompassCoach provides information and advice grounded in Joan’s personal experience; however, all articles are backed by research and provide facts and advice from a wide variety of experts. Joan also serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.
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