Hello, self-realization!

 

“Know yourself” might encapsulate what self-realization really is. In fact it’s a multifaceted process that involves a deep understanding of who we are where we belong in the world. 

It's a journey of self-discovery and personal growth that can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. 

I never was taught about it as a kid and it’s something I discovered mostly through trial and error, along the way into adulthood. 

If you aren’t familiar with self-realization, here are some of the elements that go into it: 

• At first, there’s self-awareness that means understanding one's own thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and behaviors. This includes recognizing our own strengths, weaknesses, and patterns of behavior. 
• Then there’s self-acceptance, which consists of accepting oneself, including both positive and negative qualities, without judgment or self-criticism. 
• Authenticity is the next concept at play. This means living in alignment with one's true self, rather than conforming to societal expectations or the desires of others. 
• The next area is the discovery and pursuit of a sense of meaning and purpose in life. This may involve identifying personal goals, values, and passions. 
• This is followed by establishing meaningful connections with others and the world around us. This can involve building relationships, contributing to society, and finding a sense of belonging. 
• Finally there is the quest for a sense of calm and tranquility within oneself, even in the face of arduous challenges or adversity. 

As you can appreciated it, self-realization is quite an endeavor! It’s a lifelong journey that unfolds at its own pace. It's not a destination to be reached, but rather a process of ongoing discovery and growth. By focusing on these key aspects, individuals who seek it can deepen their understanding of themselves and live more fulfilling lives. 

In the following blogs, we’ll explore how to understand these categories and put them to work for us.