11 tips on proper self-reflection

From time to time it is good for all of us to stop and reflect on what is happening in our lives, on our thoughts, feelings and actions. This process of self-reflection helps us not only to understand ourselves better, but also to find ways for personal growth and improving the quality of life. Here is a step-by-step guide to help make this process more meaningful and productive.

1. Let the thoughts flow. Relax and observe your thoughts without evaluating them. Let one thought follow another. When you feel that the mind has become calmer, invite it to focus on something specific.
2. Determine the object of reflection. Your attention may have stopped on something seemingly insignificant, but it is not accidental. In every such moment there is the potential for deep self-knowledge and change.
3. Create an internal space for reflection. Play back in your mind the details of the situation you have chosen to consider and try to see it from the perspective of your experience.
4. Add emotion. Allow yourself to feel the full range of emotions associated with the situation without evaluating them. This will help you to understand your feelings more deeply.
5. Consider the influence of other people. Try to objectively assess how the actions of others have affected the situation and determine how much of the responsibility lies with you.
6. Make primary conclusions. Think about what new things you have learnt about yourself or the situation.
7. Evaluate the relevance of the findings. Test how the findings apply to your current life by giving specific examples.
8. Write down the lesson. Put your findings and lessons into writing to reinforce them.
9. Determine what action to take. Decide what steps you can take right away to start making changes in your life.
10. Simulate a new situation. Imagine how you would like a similar situation to develop in the future.
11. Assess the energy level. If you feel energised, then the reflection process has been productive. If not, ask yourself what more you can do to better understand the situation.

The process of self-reflection is not only an opportunity to get to know yourself better, but also a chance to consciously influence your life, making it more meaningful and happier. Don’t be afraid to ask yourself questions, seek answers, and let every such moment be a step towards a better version of yourself.