WELLBEING
SELF-REFLECTION
What is self-reflection, and why is it important?
Self-reflection is the process of examining and evaluating your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is a way to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your motivations, which can help you make better decisions and achieve your goals. Self-reflection can help to highlight your strengths and weaknesses, and develop a plan for personal growth and development. By identifying patterns in your life that may be holding you back, such as negative self-talk or limiting beliefs, it can also help you manage stress and anxiety, by giving you the tools to better understand your emotions and adjust effectively.
Defining your "why" is crucial when making decisions in life, especially when it comes to considering a career path. Knowing the reason behind your choices provides purpose, clarity, and motivation. It allows you to align your values, passions, and strengths with your professional pursuits, creating a fulfilling and meaningful career. In a world of overwhelming opportunities, understanding your "why" helps you navigate through the myriad of options, guiding you towards a path that resonates with your authentic self.
Defining your "why" not only brings clarity and focus to your career decisions, but also increases your resilience and dedication, allowing you to overcome challenges and stay committed to your chosen path. It becomes the driving force behind leading to a more fulfilling and rewarding career journey, satisfying long-term goals and aspirations.
Effective techniques and exercises for self-reflection
Start by finding a quiet space where you can reflect without distractions. You can use a notebook to write down your thoughts, play some quiet music, or simply take some time by yourself with nothing else.
Begin by getting as comfortable as possible. Ask yourself questions which focus inward and focus on who you are, such as "What are my values and beliefs?", "What are my strengths and weaknesses?", and "What do I truly want to achieve?". As you reflect, continue to ask “why” to get to a deeper answer.
Exercises such as SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) can be used to evaluate your skills, achievements, and areas for improvement. You can then apply your findings to the next step/s in your career journey.
Reflect on past experiences that have brought you fulfillment, and how a similar future may look. What do you want to attract, and what impact do you want to make going forward? What is it that matters to you most when it comes to a career, what what would that look like?
Self-reflection is an ongoing process that requires continuous exploration and reassessment, both retrospectively and looking forward. Defining your “why” will give you clear goals and allow you to identify the best path forward
