How to improve self-awareness for success
The meaning of success is different to different
people but the ultimate meaning of success is to know you completely. Self-awareness
can be considered as the foundation on which you can build your emotional intelligence,
personal growth and meaningful achievement. If you have the question how to improve self-awareness for success in
your mind, you are already one step ahead to the right track. The act of asking
the right question is the first step of moving towards success.
Understanding Self-Awareness
Self-awareness is nothing but the ability to
understand and recognize your thoughts, emotions, strengths, behaviors and weaknesses.
Understanding Self-Awareness is extremely important to make smart decisions, build
a better relationship and lead purposeful life. Self-Awareness is extremely
important to free from the old patterns which hindrance to meet with your true
self. Until and unless you are meeting with your true self, it becomes quite
difficult to get the actual success. Therefore the question of how to improve self-awareness for success must
not be a shallow question.
Why Self-awareness matters to get success
Whether it is a personal or professional success, in
order to achieve the ultimate success clarity is extremely important. If you do
not know what and why are you driving, achieving success can be very difficult.
Even if you are able to achieve success, you may not get the sweet taste of
success. There are many successful people who are very successful in the world
but they are absolutely empty from within. The prime reason is that they did
not choose their core value in terms of defining success. Developing self-awareness skills and improve decision-making through
self-awareness is extremely important for getting the taste of success.
There are five ways through which you can get the
answer of the question how to improve
self-awareness for success
1. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the art of being present at this
moment without any kind of judgment. Regular mindfulness practice helps you to observe
your emotions and thoughts.
Mindful
Eating
·
While eating please avoid all kinds of
distractions (Mobile, Television, Any kind of work, Chatting)
·
Eat slowly and intentionally
·
Notice the taste, texture and smell of
it and see how your body responds after eating this
·
Chew slowly and give pause between bites
You may think that how this practice is related to
the question of how to improve
self-awareness for success?, However, this is a way through which developing self-awareness skills can be
started with less effort and friction.
Observing
breath
·
Sit in a comfortable position and focus
on your breathing
·
Notice every inhalation and exhalation
but do not try to control those
·
Try to notice consciously where your
mind wanders (Whether it is in past or in future) and try to bring back to your
breath
It is another effective way of improving self-awareness for success but this need to follow
everyday to increase personal insight.
Mindful
observation
·
Take an object (A candle flame, a plant
or a toy)
·
Observe it as if you are seeing it for
the very first time
·
Try to notice its color, shape, texture
and all details
2. Keep a reflective journal
Keep a time of let’s say 30 min of each day before
going to bed and sit in this time with a journal. Ask yourself three important
questions.
·
How was the day?
·
What I did well today?
·
What did I wrong today?
It is not necessary to write answer of all these
questions elaborately. You can use main points in the bullet forms. In the
process of reflecting “What did I wrong today?, if you observe about any
negative events has trigger you a lot, try to write it in a elaborate way. It
will help in two ways. When you will elaborate the event in the journal, your
negative emotion with respect to the event will be released. When you will read
the overall writing for the second time after releasing the negative emotion,
you can understand what should be the proper reaction you will need if the same
kinds of situation will arise for the second time.
Try to conduct the journaling each day but if it is
not possible to conduct it on a daily basis, try to conduct it at least 5 days
in a week. You must do 5 days if you are serious about the question “how to improve self-awareness for
success”.
3. Observe your triggers
Observing triggers are the most important and
fundament way of being aware. You need to observe yourself what event, person
or memory is triggering your positive or negative emotion. This is especially
important for identification of negative emotion. If you think that you are not
able to do it by yourself, you can take help of any faithful friends or
well-wishers or even a counselors. Once negative emotions are identified, try
to keep a safe distance from this
event, person or memory that triggers. I am suggesting it for the
initial stage but I personally prefer to not run way from this triggering point
but to face and feel the emotion. At the initial stage you may feel very
discomfit of this process but in the long term this initiative can liberate you
and you will get the answer of “how to
improve self-awareness for success”.
4. Set intentional goal
For this, you need to identify your strengths and
weakness regarding your both professional and personal life. Choose one
weakness and try to improve the condition within one week. The goal should be
converting weakness into strength and improving the condition of weakness
factor so that in one week time it can be converted into opportunity at least.
It is one of the habits of successful
people that help in self-discovery
journey. For example, if you find that time-management skill is your
weakness, intentionally provide you some work and set specific time with
respect to it. At the end of the week, check whether you are able to complete
the task within the time or not. Time-management skill is one of the main
factors for “improving self-awareness
for success”.
5. Spend alone time
In a world full of distractions, solitude is highly underrated but in order to get the answer of “how to improve self-awareness for success” it must be incorporated with the overall procedure. You have to find out time at least 10 min per day in this time you may think something consciously, you can walk in nature or you can simply keep you away from screens time. It will be better if you can have a plan of solo trip in each month. It is one of the most effective self-reflection techniques which can provide mental clarity as well. It will help in connecting ourselves with our true self and you may find yourself in a completely different way. However, it needs long term commitment to get the final result from it.
Self-awareness exercises for personal growth
1. Affirmations for anxiety and depression
Affirmations
for anxiety:
Importance:
Affirmations for anxiety is important to challenge anxious
thoughts, to activate relaxation response and to rewire brain. At the same time
daily practicing of affirmation for
anxiety is helpful to be ground in t he present moment. The importance of
it can be mentioned in the context of building emotional self-support as well.
There is no specific affirmation for
anxiety which can be considered as best
Self-awareness exercises for personal growth. Based on personal problems
and choices, these affirmations can be said after waking up in the morning.
·
This
feeling is temporary; it will pass.
·
I
can slow down and take things one step at a time.
·
I
trust myself to handle what comes my way
·
I
am doing my best, and that is enough.
·
I
release the need to control everything.
·
My
breath anchors me in calm and peace.
·
It’s
okay to not have all the answers right now.
·
I
am safe in this moment.
Affirmations
for depression
Importance: Affirmations for depression is needed to be followed to combat negative Self-Talk. It is significant to support emotional healing but the procedure demands proper time to recover. Encouraging small steps forward is very important to recover from depression and therefore the following affirmation for depression can be said. It is extremely important to break the cycle of hopelessness in order to come back to life in a new way. In order to overcome depression, seeking professional help is very important. However, things are needed to be practiced by own and in this context affirmation can work as a Self-awareness exercises for personal growth.
·
I
am not alone in how I feel.
·
My
worth is not defined by how I feel today.
·
I
am still here, and that matters.
·
Even
small steps count.
·
It’s
okay to rest; healing is not linear.
·
I
deserve compassion—from others and from myself.
·
This
darkness does not define me.
·
There
is hope, even if I can’t see it right now.
2. Apps to track mood and anxiety symptoms
There are different kinds of apps which may help in
tracking mood and anxiety symptoms. Among all, some of the most used
applications are Daylio, Moodpath (now MindDoc), Sanvello, Moodnotes and
Bearable.
|
Application
name |
Key
Features |
Benefits |
|
Daylio |
·
Tracking based on Emoji ·
Activity logging (customizable
categories ·
Mood patterns and Trend reports |
Simple,
visual interface for users who prefer minimal text input |
|
Moodpath(now
MindDoc), |
·
Assessments of daily mental
health ·
Tracking physical and emotional symptoms ·
Offering content and exercises
based on results |
Combines
tracking with CBT-based education and reflection |
|
Sanvello |
·
Tracking sleep, mood and health
habits ·
Peer support community |
Integrating
therapy techniques with self-monitoring
|
|
Moodnotes |
·
Journal-style mood tracker ·
Promoting positive psychology and
challenging thought ·
Detecting cognitive distortions |
Ideal
for those users who are interested in thought pattern awareness. |
|
Bearable |
·
Comprehensive tracking (Symptoms,
mood, medication, sleep and habits) ·
Correlation insights as well
as graphs |
Helpful
for users who are struggling with managing complex physical especially mental
health. |
The
above mentioned Apps to track mood and anxiety symptoms are good but all comes
with free version, premium version and discounts. It may not be affordable for
all kinds of people but if anyone can afford, it will provide a guidance which
will help in understanding whether mood distortion or anxiety problem is overcome
or not with time. The monthly cost of taking subscription is quite high but the
cost can be reduced nearly 40 % if annual subscription is taken. [The reduction
of % may vary across mobile applications].
3. Essential oils for focus and concentration
There are five essential oils for focus and concentration which
can help in the procedure of wellness and mindfulness as well.
Peppermint Oil
Identification:
Minty and refreshing oil derived from peppermint leaves.
Usage:
Diffuse 3–5 drops while working or apply diluted to temples or wrists.
Effectiveness:
Energizes
the mind, increases alertness and combats fatigue. Therefore it can be used
during work sessions or long study.
Side
Effects: May cause burning sensation or skin irritation if
undiluted. Therefore it is not advised
for young children as well as pregnant woman.
Proper Use: Avoid contact with eyes, dilute (1 drop to 1 tsp carrier oil) and use in a limiting way before bed because of its energizing effect.
Lemon Oil
Identification: Citrus
oil extracted from lemon peels having a fresh and clean scent.
Usage:
Diffuse
to reduce stress and uplift mood. Should be applied by diluting on wrists for a
refreshing feel.
Effectiveness:
Reduces
brain fog, boosts concentration and enhances mental and mood energy
Side
Effects: Phototoxic- Can cause rashes or cause if applied to
skin exposed to sunlight.
Proper
Use: Avoid sun exposure for 12 hours after topical use
and focus should be given on dilution. Ideal time is daytime.
When it comes to choosing essential oils for focus and
concentration, the name of Basil Oil cannot be
ignored on the ground of energizing and uplifting clarifying properties and
these are helpful in the process of enhancing memory and clarity.
Eucalyptus Oil
Identification:
A sharp, camphor-like oil which is known for mental clarity and respiratory
benefits.
Usage: Diffuse
to mind and it should be inhaled for an instant refresher
Effectiveness:
Helps
in improves breathing, opening airways and enhancing oxygen flow so that the
brain can better focus.
Side
Effects: Toxic if ingested, may cause irritation or breathing
issues in young children.
Proper
Use: Use in small amounts, avoid direct contact with skin
unless well diluted
The name of eucalyptus oil can be considered under essential oils for focus and concentration because of
its capability of reducing stress and Fatigue. It’s fresh, clean scent can lift
brain fog and boost energy which helps in the process of being present.
Rosemary Oil
Identification: Herbal
and woody oil known for its brain-stimulating properties.
Usage: Massage
into the scalp or temples by diluting during the study.
Effectiveness:
Improves
cognitive performance, enhances memory and promotes mental clarity
Side
Effects: May raise blood pressure or trigger seizures in
epileptics if overused. It may cause skin sensitivity as well.
Proper
Use: Avoid high doses internally and use in a
well-ventilated space. High concentrations can create irritation in throat, nose
and lungs. It can be quite harmful for those having asthma. Proper airflow
helps in preventing irritation from excessive inhalation.
Rosemary Oil is essential
oils for focus and concentration which can be said based on aromatherapy
research. It also helps in uplifting scent that can reduce mental fatigue.
Basil Oil
Identification: Herbaceous
and sweet oil from basil leaves
Usage: Diffuse
during mental exhaustion and can be used directly to shoulders and neck.
Effectiveness:
Enhances
focus, reduces stress and soothes nervous tension.
Side
Effects: May not be suitable for sensitive skin and must be
avoided during pregnancy.
Proper
Use: Should be used in moderation and diluting condition.
Best time to use during midday slumps.
When it comes to choosing essential oils for focus and
concentration, the name of Basil Oil cannot be
ignored on the ground of adaptogenic, neurostimulant and mentally clarifying
properties.
4. Natural cures for insomnia adults
Mindfulness
Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a practice to be aware in
the present times through breathing and observation of thoughts. It is a very
helpful technique to reduce stress, over-thinking and anxiety. MBSR (Mindfulness-Based
Stress Reduction) has shown significant improvement in sleep quality. One can
notice mental and emotional patterns which disturb sleep and identification of
pattern is the first to overcome the actual problem. It is recommended to take 10–20
minutes of guided meditation before bed. There are different apps which can
help in natural cures for insomnia
adults which are Headspace, Insight Timer and Calm applications.
Herbal Teas
Some of the popular choices that can be mentioned
are Lemon balm, Chamomile, Passionflower and Valerian root. All these Contains
natural sedative compounds like enhancers, GABA and apigenin. In
order to get the maximum benefit from this drink, it is required to drink 30–60
minutes before bed. This is a drink that can overcome adult sleep disorders and
therefore it can be considered as natural
cures for insomnia adults. It is helpful on the ground of encouraging intentional
bedtime rituals as well as calming routines. However, Valerian can cause
drowsiness the next morning for some individuals.
Aromatherapy with essential oils
Common oils that can be used in this process include
Chamomile, Lavender, Sandalwood and Vetiver. This procedure helps in claiming the
nervous system and reducing cortisol. At the same time, it induces a
parasympathetic (restful) state. Considering Usage of this, it can be said that
pillow spray can provide the highest positive impact. Apart from that, few
drops on wrists or temples can render wonderful results. It is one of the most
effective solutions for natural cures
for insomnia adults because it helps in bringing attention to breathe and
body sensations. In this way, mind-body connection can be established in a
proper way. However, before using these oils, one should check whether they
have allergies towards any oil or not.
Yoga and gentle evening stretching
There are different kinds of poses that can helpful
in the process of yielding natural cures
for insomnia adults. However, Child’s
Pose, Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall) and Reclining Twist is some most
important poses that can be followed. All these poses are extremely helpful in
the process of reducing muscle tension and lowering heart rate. The importance
cannot be ignored in the context of activating parasympathetic system. Under
the consideration of self-awareness angle, it can be said that it brings mind
and body into alignment through breath and movement. Best time to do this is 15–20
minutes before sleep.
Child’s
Pose
.jpg)
Viparita
Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall)
Journaling+
Sleep Hygiene
Consistent bedtime and no screens 1 hour before bed
are some good sleep habits and it is better if cool dark room can be used for
sleeping. Most of us are very busy in the present times and we hardly get time
for activity like Journaling. We need to find out 5–10 minutes before going to
bed for reflecting thoughts and it is better if gratitude list can be written
in this time. You can write at least three things in this day for which you are
grateful to the universe. It helps in clearing mental clutter and reveling underlying
emotional stressors. It is a wonderful to notice patterns in your sleep
disturbances. That’s why it is considered as natural cures for insomnia adults.
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