If you find yourself continuing to act out old patterns and roles that no longer serve you, this is more than likely interfering with your ability to create mutually rewarding, respectful, and reciprocal relationships. Below are my ten strategies for getting in touch with your true self so as to create an integrity-based and emotionally rewarding life. The True Self Lost in ChildhoodAlthough living as one’s true self in an emotionally honest manner might seem like a natural and easy thing to do, those of us who grew up in a family system that did not support our uninhibited and natural expressions may have gradually disconnected from the truth of who we were, i.e., our core essence, so as to be accepted by those we were dependent upon to meet our most basic and fundamental needs. It is often the case that children who grew up in these types of chaotic, unstable environments find some semblance of identity and emotional security by taking on one or more family roles, such as the hero, the scapegoat, the rebel, the caretaker, or the clown. But in unconsciously disconnecting from our true self in order to emotionally survive, we may later find ourselves as adults people-pleasing others and hiding behind a facade, with no idea how to express and live our truth. How to Live and Speak Your TruthIf I were to ask you right now, “In what situations, or around which people, do you feel most yourself, and most creative, spontaneous, and alive?”, how might you respond? Alternatively, if I were to ask you, “In what situations, or around which people, do you feel uncomfortable, restrained, and inhibited?,” how might you reply? Contemplating these questions can be provocative, to say the least, and there may be no obvious or easy answers at first. If you feel ready to shed anything about yourself that feels false and fearlessly live from a place of emotional honesty, personal integrity (inspired by your principles and values), and a direct knowledge of self, the 10 strategies I designed to assist my psychotherapy and coaching clients will aid you in this courageous quest. If you are not already seeing a competent therapist, counselor, or coach who can support you in your efforts, you might consider engaging such services before implementing the strategies listed below. 10 Strategies for Discovering and Being Your True Self
Living as Your True SelfAs illustrated in the above 10 strategies, remaining committed to an ongoing transformational process designed to further our personal and professional growth, enhance our relationships, and increase our overall sense of confidence and well being is not always a simple or enjoyable task, especially in the beginning. And yet, those who decide to do what it takes to live from a place of emotional integrity and fearless honesty invariably discover that it is worth the effort required, for it is by courageously committing to recovering the lost child’ within that we are able to become the true self we were always destined to be. And what could be better than that? Where can I find my true self?How to find yourself. Reflect on your story. ... . Determine your values. ... . Silence your negative self-talk. ... . Discover your strengths. ... . Recognize what doesn't serve you.. What does it mean to find your true self?In order to find ourselves, we must all seek out our own personal sense of purpose. This means separating our own point of view from other people's expectations of us. It means asking ourselves what our values are, what truly matters to us, then following the principles we believe in.
How do I know if Im being my true self?What does it mean to be authentic?. Speaking your opinions honestly in a healthy way.. Making decisions that align with your values and beliefs.. Pursuing your passions.. Listening to the inner voice guiding you forward.. Allowing yourself to be vulnerable and open-hearted.. How do I start my true self?Once you are more clear on what being more authentic means to you, here are some tips to maintain that sense of authenticity.. Be impeccable with your word. ... . Don't take anything personally, and accept that you can't please everyone. ... . Learn to say no and define your boundaries. ... . Always do your best.. |