However, when it comes to discovering who we are, we either become critical or avoid the topic. I find that new clients are frequently uncomfortable talking about themselves. They would much rather talk about others. It’s easy for them to jump to: “I am my own worst enemy" and leave it at that, not wishing to go deeper.

They know what they need to work on, yet do they know themselves? Do you fully know who you are? Have you asked yourself the provocative questions you ask others when interviewing or getting to know them?

Self-knowledge is one of the most freeing activities you can undertake. Stop making assumptions and falling back into your old traps. You are not the same person you were a year, even six months ago. Free yourself to experience ‘you’ as the person you are today, discover your values, live life on a brand new playing field.

If you think that seeking ‘self knowledge’ is some New Age waste of time, think again. It’s not selfish or self-indulgent. It is vital to your success, joy and happiness. Take it from the ancient Greeks:

• The unexamined life is not worth living. ~Socrates


• To win over your bad self is the grandest and foremost of victories. ~Plato


• Don’t attempt to heal others when you yourself are full of wounds. ~Euripides


• Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom. ~Aristotle


• It is the part of an uneducated person to blame others where he himself fares ill; to blame himself is the part of one whose education has begun; to blame neither another nor his own self is the part of one whose education is already complete. ~Epictetus

Once you get in the rhythm of seeking ‘self knowledge,’ life quickly becomes richer. How does one create this rhythm? You’ve been meaning to ‘journal;’ perhaps you’ve even purchased one and it’s collecting dust. Pull it out and begin writing. There is no right or wrong in journaling. As with everything else in life, the only failure is in not showing up.

Not one for journaling? Try a walking meditation. When you go for your walk or run simply notice what surrounds you--the trees, birds, architecture, wind on your body. In this manner you separate yourself from standard thoughts in order to allow new, more creative approaches to appear from a place deep within you.

What to journal or think about? Some readers tell me that they journal about these weekly ‘success thoughts.’ They answer the questions posed each week and explore on paper just how these messages pertain to their life. Another favorite is to write about whatever bothers you. Ask the question on paper and let your thoughts slow down as you write. There are also books of questions. Pick one up and answer away.

Another way to get to know ‘you’ better is to merely notice. What do you like or dislike in foods, people, activities. With whom do you spend your time? What common traits prevail? What books, movies or areas of study intrigue you? What draws you to the work you do, sports you partake in, partners you’ve chosen in life. Slow your thoughts down to allow your learning to explode.

Getting to know yourself is a lifelong process as you change from year to year. Enjoy self-admiration as you expand your self knowledge this week. Let me know how it goes.

Enjoy your discoveries!

Ann

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Permission is granted to either reproduce copy or distribute "Your Success Thought for the Week for July 26, 2006" as long as this copyright notice and full information about contacting the author is attached. The author is Ann Golden Eglé, Golden Visions Success Coaching, LLC, 541.385.8887, 21775 Rickard Rd., Bend, Oregon 97701, www.GoldenVisionsSuccess.com