The Art of Self Reflection for improved mental health.

Self-reflection is a powerful practice for personal growth and understanding. Through self-reflection, we gain deeper insights into our emotional experiences by accessing the subconscious mind. By bringing these reflections into our conscious awareness, we can intentionally choose responses that align with our personal values. Living in alignment with our values fosters a more fulfilling life and supports better mental health.

So how exactly do we start the practice of Self Reflection.

1. Find a Quiet Space: Choose a calm, comfortable place where you can think without distractions.

2. Set Aside Time: Dedicate a regular time for self-reflection. It could be daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on your schedule.

3. Ask Yourself Questions: Use prompts to guide your reflection. Some examples include:

• What are my strengths and weaknesses?

• What are my recent accomplishments and failures?

• How do I feel about my relationships?

• What are my short-term and long-term goals?

• When a feeling comes up for you that you are unsure about ask “Why?” “Why does this bother me? Why is this impacting me? Why is it making me feel this way?”

4. Journal Your Thoughts: Write down your thoughts, feelings, and observations. Journaling helps clarify your mind and provides a record you can look back on.

5. Be Honest: Be truthful with yourself. Acknowledge both your successes and areas for improvement without judgment.

6. Consider Feedback: Reflect on feedback from others. How do others perceive you? How does this align with your self-view?

7. Identify Patterns: Look for recurring themes in your thoughts and behavior. Understanding these patterns can help you make meaningful changes.

8. Set Actionable Goals: Based on your reflections, set specific, achievable goals to work towards improvement.

9. Practice Mindfulness: Being present in the moment can enhance your self-awareness and improve the quality of your reflections.

10. Seek Support if Needed: Sometimes talking to a friend, mentor, or therapist can provide additional insights and support your reflection process.

Regular self-reflection can lead to greater self-awareness, better decision-making, and personal growth.

If you want to work on Self Reflection with the aim of improving your mental health, check out the Contact page and get in touch with me!