So often we want change—less stress, better relationships, healthier habits—but we don’t always know where to start. The truth is, the very first step in any kind of growth is self-awareness.
Self-awareness is simply the practice of paying attention to what’s going on inside of you: your thoughts, your emotions, and even the way your body feels. Think of it as holding up a mirror—not to criticize yourself, but to really see yourself with curiosity and compassion.
Here’s why it matters: we can’t change what we don’t notice. Imagine coming home after a tough day and snapping at someone you love. With self-awareness, you might pause and realize, I’m not actually mad at them—I’m just exhausted. That pause opens the door for a different choice, like resting, asking for support, or responding more gently.
The beautiful thing is that self-awareness isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. It’s about catching yourself in those small everyday moments and choosing a response that feels more aligned with the person you want to be.
Here’s few simple ways to practice:
- Check in with yourself. Take a minute each day to notice: How am I feeling? What do I need right now?
- Pause before reacting. When you feel triggered, try slowing down and taking a deep breath before responding.
- Reflect. Whether through journaling or just replaying your day in your mind, noticing patterns helps you connect the dots.