Human consciousnesses is gifted with an extraordinary ability of introspection and being able to study ourselves.
Across various fields of science, humans have done prolific research in physics, physiology, biology, chemistry, psychology, etc.
But studying the self is by far the most crucial in-order for one to live fulfilled life. We all are capable and we all need to examine ourselves.
We can introspect on the workings of our own minds; Be more aware of the patterns in our thoughts and emotions.
Moreover reflect on how our actions and its consequence on our-self and others. We can observe the emotions and moral values of others through empathy and compassion. The human mind is capable of examining one's own life, pure and simple, so there is no excuse not to live an examined life
Examining our life is invaluable, in a essence, it enables us to change our habit in attempt to change what's has failed us. Examining our lives allow us to observe ourselves reacting to situations - that was perhaps responded in a striking manner; and ponder on the subconscious process driving our reaction.
There are myriad ways to examine ourselves . The self is infinitely endless territory, that recedes forever no matter how much ground one covers. You might be born too late to explore the earth, too early to explore the universe, but just in time to explore yourself.
Exploring the Self
So what does it meant to “study ourselves” or "the self"?
Studying the self is pure and simply applying a scientific lens to our experience. We look at ourselves as something to be learned from — as something to be studied.
By observing our thoughts, emotions, sensations, perceptions, memories, behaviors, habits, and etc that are relevant to our experience. We form hypotheses‘ about what changes may be helpful to apply in our lives. Then experiment with these changes to see if they are indeed effective. And finally do our best to objectively analyze the results.
For instance, you may have been struggling with your aspects of forming a habit, and the key field of experimentation might be the timing of your routine.
Such process of self-study helps you learn what you needed to know about yourself in order to firmly root a healthy habit.
The Examined Life and Personal Development
We all need to study ourselves because it is by far the most effective way to facilitate personal development.
Personal development is the movement toward our optimal potential. It is striving to better ourselves across many dimensions of human life and capability.
Humanity needs more people functioning at optimal potential. To begin addressing our enormous global issues, we sure need people who are physically and energetically healthy. People who are sensitive and emotionally intelligent. People who are smart and creative. People who are socially responsible and compassionate.
It may not be possible to perfect ourselves, but humanity absolutely needs people who strive for growth. And that starts with our self.
Studying ourselves helps us grow by providing us with the knowledge we need to effectively enact change in our life.
Self-knowledge expands our self-awareness. Pure and simple.
As much as it is important to seek self-knowledge it's also crucial to apply that self-knowledge.
The more you learn about yourself the better you will be at growing on purpose. With excellent self-awareness you will know how to approach your endeavors of self-development.
Through self-study you will come to know your strengths and weaknesses more intimately. This will help you prepare to take advantage of those strengths and set up supports for those weaknesses.
Go learn about yourself! You’ll be a lot better at doing what you want to do with this life!
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