Self-Discovery
Self-Discovery is a lifelong journey of exploration through our inner self, trying to discover who we are, our potential, our purpose in life, and what core principles are guiding us to take different paths along the way. The journey starts with self awareness then explores personal interests as well as hopes and dreams for the future. The journey eventually leads us to self knowledge which will enable us to guide ourselves towards situations and experiences in which we will thrive.
Self-discovery is a fundamental component of personal growth. We must take the time to discovery who we are as a person. This is accomplished through self-reflection. Self-reflection allows us to think about and examine our actions, preferences, feeling, values, beliefs, emotions, and tendencies. Since we are all different in the way we think, feel, act, learn, and perceive the world, it is beneficial to take the time to reflect in order to gain a better insight into ourselves. Self-discovery is a way for us to explore our individual personalities, natural preferences, values, beliefs, preferred styles and tendencies. The ultimate destination of this journey is finding out who we are and what makes use unique.
“We must not cease from exploration and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we began and to know the place for the first time.” – TS Eliot
Process of Self-Discovery
The process of self-discovery is one in which a person is guided, through self-questioning and examination of one’s own thoughts, words, and actions, in order to reach his or her own conclusions regarding who they truly are. Through the process a person gains a deeper understanding of his or her own self, character, values, and purpose in life. He or she also becomes more aware of his or her potential.
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes
The Process of Self-Discovery is broken down into four segments;
Self-Awareness – Increasing understanding of who you are, your personal characteristics, your tendencies, your emotions, your needs, and your value.
Interest Awareness – Establishing your personal interests
Hopes and Dreams – Listing your hopes and dreams for the future.
Career Discovery – Finding a career that corresponds to your personality and interest.
“The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The meaning of life is to give it away.” -David Viscot
Self-Reflection
The first step in the self-discovery process is self-reflection. You must make the time to stop and really think about who you are. Quiet meditation and reflection will allow you to refocus your mind and concentrate on your inner self, and allow you to examine the way you “see” yourself. Self-Reflection allows you to explore your individual personality, natural preferences, values, beliefs, preferred styles and tendencies in order to become self-aware. You can also reflect on your personal interests, your dreams, and what you would like to do for a living.
“A man travels the world over in search of what he needs, and returns home to find it.” – George Moore
