Knowing Yourself Is The Beginning Of Wisdom
Like a mirror—a truth I've found to be unshakable in my own research and personal experiences.
While many argue that the pivotal relationships in our lives are with partners or children, I wholeheartedly contend that forsaking the relationship we have with ourselves diminishes our capacity to be the fullest, most authentic versions of ourselves in those other connections.
I remember vividly my own journey, getting married at 19 and stepping into motherhood at 21. Slowly but surely, I began to adopt the belief that everyone else's needs should supersede my own—my children, my former spouse, the church, my clients. It's a common refrain in our society, one that ingrains the notion that self-sacrifice is the right way.
However, life has a way of delivering a little or not so little wake-up calls, and mine arrived with a resounding force about seven years ago, when my health plummeted into a state of complete exhaustion. I stood at the crossroads, unable to distinguish my own intuition's voice amidst the cacophony of external expectations and judgments. It was a painful realization—I had unwittingly relinquished my power to others, leaving myself depleted in every way.
From a young age, we are conditioned to seek approval from figures of authority—our parents, teachers, and friends—until, unconsciously, we elevate their voices and opinions above our own. In this process, we sever the vital connection with our own internal voice and compass.
During that period of time, I made a deliberate choice to silence the external noise, to step away from the demanding roles of leadership and work, and to really begin on a journey of rekindling my relationship with myself.
Prioritizing this reconnection with the depths of my heart stands as one of the most profound choices I've ever made.
This journey led me to connect on a deep level with my own needs, desires and wants—a practice that continues to support my life to this day.
This is something I love guiding my clients through. Because one thing is resoundingly clear: you can never escape yourself. So why not savor and genuinely love your own company?
When your relationship with yourself is thriving, it has a ripple effect on every other aspect of your life. Your dating life, your relationship with your kids, your connection with your parents, your interactions with your coworkers – they all benefit.
In fact, the healthy relationships in your life become the sweetest cherries on top of an already delicious sundae.
5 Ways To Connect More Deeply With Yourself:
Step 1: Look in the Mirror
Start by examining the relationship you have with yourself. Be super honest. How you perceive and view yourself reflects in every aspect of your life, from your personal connections to your career. Everything in life is a reflection of our inner world.
Step 2: Prioritize Self-Care
Understand that you can't be your best self for others if you neglect the relationship with yourself. Prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and nurture your heart, mind, and body.
Step 3: Break Free from External Expectations
Don't let external voices drown your inner wisdom. Take time to slow down and be with yourself to find out what is most true for you.
Step 4: Silence the Noise
Learn to discern your intuition amidst the noise of the world. Reclaim your power. You are worthy to be heard and seen, especially by yourself. Take a step back from the hustle and bustle of life and give yourself the space to re-cultivate your relationship with yourself. Get in nature!
Step 5: Embrace Your Heart's Desires
Prioritize your connection with your own heart. Make choices that align with your needs, desires, and wants.
Conclusion:
So, here's the thing: Self-discovery isn't a destination; it's really about the journey – a messy, beautiful, and oh-so-rewarding journey. By embracing who we are, we not only enrich our own lives but also create deeper, more meaningful connections with the world around us. So, here's to embracing the adventure of self-discovery – may it lead us to the most authentic version of ourselves!