This phrase is frequently used in circles of inspiration, motivation, and personal development. And while it may be a useful concept, it can be a bit frustrating when one does not know how to actually do it. I mean, think about it, a person who sees themselves as one-dimensional may not accept the idea of even being in their own on way. When we discover the layers of what it is to be human, we are better equipped to at least start the process of setting aside one part of ourselves in favor of another.
It is true, one can prevent themselves from advancing to their desired destination, and a major key to avoid doing so is acknowledging the different parts of who we are. Once we get that out of the way, we can then move forward to applying other tools including the following.
Self-Reflection. There are two ways to self-reflect. The first, stationary self-reflection, is taking time to sit in stillness while considering different aspects of who you are. Vital areas to consider are: how you think, how you speak and how you behave. These three areas can give you a great picture of how you function; it reveals the parts of yourself and which one may have to shift. The other way is active self-reflection which simply means to pay attention to the same areas aforementioned but in real-time. When you operate through the day, what are you thinking? What are you saying? How are you behaving? Pay attention.
Limiting Beliefs. In your time of self-reflection, as well as other personal development activities, you will discover limiting beliefs. These beliefs are the antithesis to your hopes, dreams, and aspirations. They are unfruitful statements you may tell yourself about yourself or harsh words spoken to you from others. Overtime, these judgements become part of your pattern of thinking, creating hurdles that make it difficult to achieve goals. Uncovering limiting beliefs affords the opportunity to fine tune your paradigm and retrain your brain to think in your favor. Always remember, thinking a thought doesn't make it true and most of your good/healthy/productive thoughts are more real than those that say otherwise. Life is really seeking to be gracious and kind to you.
Realizing It’s NOT You. When you’re doing the work and being consistent at it, you may find that you aren’t the issue. We all experience intrusive thoughts that may camouflage themselves as being our own. If we aren’t mindful, we can take on thoughts as truth or go through cycles of trying to rid ourselves of vices that aren’t real. It’s vital to pay attention to your core being and filter all thoughts through the lens of your true identity. Realizing you’re not in your own way is just as important as knowing when you are.
Lifework:
Apply the tools of Self Reflection and uncovering limiting beliefs mentioned above. Journal about what you think, say, and do for the next three days and seek to discover where you may be misaligned and what limiting beliefs you may be carrying.
If you find that you are already doing work but deal with intrusive thoughts, start to filter those thoughts through the lens of core self in order to reposition or maintain alignment with all parts of yourself.
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Tashima Jones is an author and life coach who focuses on personal development and building inner-wealth. Tap here for more on her coaching sessions. Not a Member? Join the Club here.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.