"We have often heard people say - you should introspect to understand yourself better, but the real question is how does one do it?" - -Manushi Toor
There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to introspecting because it is a personal journey. But there a few things which can help guide the process better.
- It is nothing but a process of becoming self-aware, analyzing our life and understanding our priorities. It’s like taking care of our mind and soul, the way we go to a spa for our physical self, it’s a Mental Spa.?Who doesn’t want that?
- Becoming more self-aware requires us to understand our patterns and behaviours.
- Ask yourself this – What are my unhealthy thoughts and behaviours? Are they keeping me away from achieving my personal goals?
- Repeating our unhealthy patterns would mean - being stuck in the same cycle, similar things happening in our life – thinking in the same manner which is hurting us, attracting unhealthy people and relationships.
So, how do I Introspect then?
- The idea is to be understanding of yourself, being honest to yourself without any judgement. We don’t have to be critical and punish ourselves for being a particular way.?‘Love yourself enough to hold accountability for your unhealthy behaviours’.?
- Once we understand our troubling behaviour, the focus is on making a change - be forgiving. We forgive so many people in our lives – the people we love and care about. We are ready to give them a second chance, so why not give a second chance to ourselves too?
- Focus on the Positives, realistic things, things that are in your control, because it helps us stay grounded and yet make a change.?
For a better understanding, remember these 4 steps while introspecting-
- Realize and become aware of your behaviours, emotions, relationships and priorities.
- Accept your shortcomings.
- Let go of what is not helping you grow.?
- Affirm new changes in your behaviour.
Most importantly, while you are on this journey, acknowledge and appreciate small changes and reward yourself!?
