This post outlines the process of self-discovery, covering its meaning and how it can be a catalyst to personal growth, understanding, and fulfillment.

What do we say about ourselves when making an introduction?

Many of us fire-off a list that includes things like our name, hobbies, favorite colors, interests, and age. While those surface-level attributes describe us, they do not capture or communicate who we are.

Who we are is demonstrated by how we choose to maneuver through the world and how we treat ourselves and others. It is rooted in our values and the execution of our own personal standards.

Ideally, at the end of each day, we should feel proud and pleased with ourselves and the choices we have made, regardless of the circumstances.

However, there are many who find that they have fallen short of their own standards.

Failing to adhere to our values leaves us feeling dissatisfied and disappointed with ourselves. It is crucial that we do not betray ourselves by acting against our values. This failure oftentimes occurs because we lack clarity about who we are.

How well do you know yourself right now?

Are you aware of your strengths and weaknesses? What do you assume to be true about yourself? Are you currently living in alignment with your values? Have you identified your core values? What are your life’s priorities?

Most likely, you have some sort of answer to those aforementioned questions. Many of us may think that we already know ourselves. While that may be true, self discovery is still a practice from which the most self aware person can benefit.

What is Self-Discovery?

Self-discovery is the process of discovering our own beliefs, values, and character. It allows us to make more informed decisions by equipping us with the tools to determine if something is in alignment with who we are. Ultimately, self-discovery helps us to uncover aspects of our identities and live a more authentic life.

Everyone Needs Self Discovery

Understand that self discovery is not a myopic practice—it is not solely focused on memorizing your surface-level preferences.

Self discovery is about discovering your character. It is a holistic approach to learning who you are. It should uncover the difference(s) (or alignment) between whom you believe yourself to be, whom your actions prove you to be, and whom you wish to become. Often times, we can discover that there are apparent gaps between those three parts of ourselves.

The purpose of the self discovery process is to bridge those gaps.

Self-discovery is necessary because the knowledge and value that can be gained is indispensable. By using your acquired knowledge, you may better assess if your current and recent choices and behaviors are aligned with whom you want to be.

This leads to exercising accountability in creating the life you desire.

Furthermore, self discovery can reveal the area where we lack boundaries and even what existing boundaries need strengthening or modifying.

The goal of self-discovery is to be empowered with a deeper knowledge of self. The next step is to utilize that information to live a more authentic and intentional life by following the guidelines established by your core values.

Knowing ourselves is personally empowering

When we acknowledge and recognize what we value and what we want, we gain clarity about who we are.

In the same way, self discovery provides us an opportunity to live a more accurate reflection of our beliefs. In turn, this newfound knowledge allows us to act in accordance with our most ideal and authentic selves.

Once empowered with self knowledge, we can adjust to execute our goals, demonstrate our values, and overall improve our outlook on life.

If you want to further know and understand your self as you go through life, commit to the journey of self discovery and be welcoming to what you find.

Below is a set of examples of what you can integrate into your self discovery process:

Examples of Self-Discovery

• recognize your unique value and talents
• know your own strengths and weaknesses
• practice stepping outside of your comfort zone
• rethink failure as an opportunity for growth
• optimize your time and habits to reflect your values
• explore your passions, hobbies and interests
• cultivate curiosity and an openness to growth
• adopt an intrinsic mindset

Ultimately, by utilizing self discovery to cultivate a fulfilling life, you can operate with clarity and intention.