Know Yourself

The Key to Wisdom and Self-Awareness

“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom” - Aristotle.

This profound quote by Aristotle is more than a mere collection of words from an ancient Greek philosopher ; it's a guiding principle for self-awareness and understanding. In a world that constantly pushes us towards external achievements, how often do we pause to reflect on who we are? Are we really as self-aware as we think?

When I had my studio photo shoot over a year ago, there was a moment when the first photo was unveiled. There I was - in glorious living colour. An image that I found both profoundly moving and transformative. I burst into tears, overwhelmed by what, until that moment, I had not fully appreciated - if at all. My photographer, the fabulously talented Louise Williams, said “That is you - that is how others see you…”. And I realised that until that moment I had been hiding. Hiding what I was truly capable of being, and bringing into the world. That photo shoot changed so much in my life (and it’s the photo I’ve used in this blog post).

The Unexplored Terrain of Self

The journey of self-discovery is, surprisingly, a road less travelled. It's not common to find individuals deeply engrossed in understanding their own persona. This lack of self-curiosity is not because of disinterest but more due to the absence of a habit or a societal push to look inward. How curious are you about yourself? If you find this question slightly unsettling, you're not alone.

The Mirror That Lies

Most of us live life on autopilot, going through motions and routines without pausing to contemplate our true selves. When was the last time you looked in the mirror and saw beyond the physical reflection? We often engage in self-reflection only when necessitated by circumstances such as significant life events or career changes, or mid-life chrysalis moments. This superficial engagement leads to a fascinating paradox: sometimes, others may have a more accurate perception of us than we do of ourselves.

Autopilot: The Enemy of Self-Awareness

Living on autopilot is easy. It’s safe. But it's also a barrier to truly understanding ourselves. Autopilot mode keeps us from diving deep into our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It's like skimming the surface of an ocean without ever exploring the depths. But the treasure lies deep, not on the surface.

The Benefits of Knowing Yourself

Why is self-knowledge important? Knowing yourself leads to better decision-making, more realistic self-assessment, and improved relationships. It helps you align your actions with your values, understand your triggers, and manage your emotions more effectively. In essence, self-awareness is a superpower in the complex web of human interactions and personal growth.

The Path to Self-Discovery

So, how do we embark on this journey of self-discovery? It starts with curiosity - a willingness to ask tough questions and confront uncomfortable truths. It involves introspection, mindfulness, and a readiness to step out of the comfort zone of autopilot living. Reflect on your actions, question your motives, and understand your emotional responses. This journey is not about reaching a destination; it’s about continuous exploration and understanding.

Embracing the Wisdom of Self-Knowledge

As Aristotle wisely pointed out, knowing yourself is the beginning of wisdom. It's a journey that uncovers layers of our personality, helps us understand our place in the world, and ultimately leads to a life lived with intention and authenticity. It's a challenging but rewarding path, and it starts with a simple yet profound step: being curious about who you really are.

In a world where external achievements are often celebrated more than internal growth, taking the time to understand oneself is a revolutionary act. It’s about time we turn our gaze inward and start the fascinating journey of self-discovery. After all, knowing yourself is not just the beginning of wisdom; it's the foundation of a life well-lived.

If you’re keen to do more of a deep-dive into the well of your own deep truths, I’d love to have a conversation with you. Let’s connect.