Why self-awareness is everything

Humans are conscious beings. Not only can we think and act, but we can also observe our thoughts and actions. That means we’re responsible for what we do and what we don’t do. It also means that we’re capable of conscious change.

Unless you are aware of a situation, you can’t change it. Unfortunately, we usually become more aware of a situation when there’s a problem. And solving problems requires being in the moment. You can’t be thinking about what you’re going to cook for dinner, where you’re going to go this weekend, or anything else. In order to solve a problem, you must be present.

Every self-help book, every method for personal change, every 12-step program starts with an awareness. We can’t change unless we are aware that there is some challenge we need to solve, and that begins with our personal role in that challenge.

Surprise!

Yes, you have a role in any challenge you bump up against. It’s not all about the other person and “their problem.” You are experiencing a challenge because you have something to learn. Think about it – if you knew what to do, you wouldn’t be having a problem, would you?

If you don’t understand why you think what you think, and why you react the way you do, then how can you expect to understand anyone else?

The solution to your challenge lies within YOU. That’s why self-awareness is everything.

(I'm really passionate about self-awareness and why it's needed for change. I've written a part 2 to this blog. Link to it here.)  

© 2017, Susan McCuistion