The saying “knowledge is power” usually means you can use information that you’ve learned about a subject or situation to your advantage. By understanding who you are, your own feelings, behavior, and motivations, you can unlock everything — from new career possibilities to healing from trauma. Best of all, getting to know yourself better is not a one-size-fits-all program; there are many paths you can take to the “destination you.” So, here are some ways you can do that.
1. Broaden your knowledge
It may seem counterintuitive, but one great way of diving into who you are is to look outside yourself. Whether you’re uncovering where to source the best beans for your coffee addiction or who discovered DNA, following your curiosity can help you chart a path to who you are. In addition, pursuing new subjects and hobbies can build your brain power and make you a more interesting person.
The magical part, however, is how growing your knowledge about a particular interest can teach you about who you are! This makes sense when you realize the subjects that capture your imagination usually touch your heart in addition to tickling your brain. When you find something like that, you’ve found a good indicator of your values.
2. Get outside more
The rewards of being in nature can range from physical to spiritual. But the common thread that links these gifts is they offer growth opportunities. Maybe you’ll challenge yourself to a difficult hike that demonstrates you’re more capable than you thought. Or maybe you’ll find a sense of stillness in a secluded beauty spot that inspires a new vision for your future.
Of course, you don’t have to trek through a distant wilderness to gain insight. For example, sitting under a tree in your local park while listening to squirrels chatter can be “outdoorsy” enough for you. What matters isn’t the grandeur of the scenery but the power of nature to help you disconnect from an always-on world so you can better observe your inner landscape.
3. Boost your “me” time
While exploring subjects and places outside your comfort zone can be great for self-discovery, there are times when you need to turn inward. This is even more important than self-care. Think daydream more than a day spa.
To do that, dedicate some quiet time to thinking about what really matters and feels good to you. Maybe you’re so Zen that you can do this soul-searching with a few deep breaths and meditation, or maybe you’ll need a journal or sketchpad to give form to your thoughts. Regardless of whatever method you choose, don’t let shame or guilt play any part. Getting to know yourself also means learning to accept all your parts, even the ones that may need a little more work!
4. Ask for guidance
As strange as this may sound, you’re not always the best person to give yourself advice. If examining your thoughts and feelings in solitude doesn’t help you find the answers you need, it may be time to seek help elsewhere. You’ve probably already seen how talking things out with your friends can lead to a revelation you can’t get on your own. Sometimes another person’s viewpoint is what’s needed to help you see yourself more clearly.
However, input from friends and family isn’t always helpful or even accurate; you may get more useful insights from a neutral source, like a therapist, coach, or mentor. After all, this is not about following anybody’s advice or re-making yourself in someone else’s image. What’s valuable is simply getting an outside perspective on yourself for a moment, just to check whether it can give you a better view.
Uncovering your truth can be funny, exhilarating, or even scary. Sometimes you may have to let go of things you thought you knew about yourself. Other times, you may need to accept aspects of yourself you’d rather not know about. But even when it’s a bumpy road, the path of self-discovery is worth taking.
Featured image via Vaibhav Kashyap on Pexels
