The old adages KNOW THYSELF and TO THINE OWN SELF BE TRUE  are timeless pieces of advice. If we are not aware of the undercurrents that affect our life-voyage, then we cannot steer accordingly. Not knowing how our unconscious currents affect our decisions and behaviour, we may believe we are heading in the right direction when in fact those conscious decisions are being subtly sabotaged at every turn by what we do not know about ourselves.

Do you know people who are not self-aware?  We all know people who are not very self-aware. They are not aware of their impact on others or the way they communicate.  Some live with same patterns of behaviour never becoming conscious they have the power to change their lives.

In the book 'Leadership and Self - Deception: Getting out of the Box' the author tells the story of a man who finally gets the position he has always wanted with the company he always wanted to work for. His first day is spent is an induction with the CEO. He is very excited to be given and entire day with this highly respected man. The CEO opens the conversation with 'Tom, you have a problem. But that is not the problem. The problem is you don't know you have a problem. But that is what we will working on while you are here with the company'. Imagine a conversation like that with your CEO on the first day of a new career move. The rest of the book talks about how Bud (the CEO) takes Tom on a journey of increased self-awareness. And of course, in the process I became more self-aware.

The very first level self-awareness is understanding things about ourselves such as personality type, communication skills, strengths, weakness, the energy we create, our values and beliefs, passions and so on.

But there is an even deeper level of self awareness. It's often given different namessuch as inner self, higher self, true self or authentic self. but it's really the same thing. The very essence of who you are, which is deeper than the physical, emotional or psychological.  When a person discovers that everything changes.  You live in greater harmony, a more empowered life where you can begin to experience your true potential. 

As a coach I love facilitating that journey of self-discovery for others and watch the transformation that begins to occur. First step is to stop, turn off the autopilot and begin thinking consciously and reflectively.

The Johari Window is a good model that helps us understand ourselves better.

If you want to know more, then email me.

Below is one of my favourite poems. Hope you like it too.