It’s Alessandra here on the Dóchas blog! Today I’d like to talk about self-awareness and how it benefits relationships.
How can self-awareness benefit relationships? Self-awareness is something we’re encouraged to develop! And as you grow in self-awareness you become proactive in your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself. It boosts your decision-making skills, communication skills and overall self-confidence.
Have you ever noticed that when you are happy with yourself, you are more compassionate toward others? Or when you are less distracted by negative emotions, you are more present in your relationships? Awareness gives us the strength to not only better ourselves, but transform our relationships. So let’s talk more about relationships
Practicing Self-Awareness in Your Relationships
Relationships are dynamic—they rely on the effort of both parties to make it work. The key, however, is not in listing each strength and weakness of your relationship, but in knowing how any relationship impacts you. This means taking a curious stance within yourself to understand how your emotions are impacted and to what extent that influences your actions.
We can start by asking ourselves… does this person bring us joy? When we’re around them do we feel inadequate? Inspired? Competitive? Excited? Do we feel like we are ourselves? By taking a step back and asking these questions, we gain relational self-awareness. This means we are beginning to understand the self in the context of our relationships!
What is Relational Self-Awareness?
Relational self-awareness is a stance where we are able to find a way to maximize what we need as individuals while still protecting what the relationship deserves. This speaks to our individual responsibility in relationships. It is up to us to take onus for our actions and reactions. With self-awareness, we are empowered to embrace our good relationships and improve ones that are not as strong. By being mindful and attentive, we are able to freely communicate and set positive boundaries in our relationships.
How Do We Improve Relational Self- Awareness?
Mindfulness Mediation
This gives us a chance to tune into ourselves and remain less distracted. Mediation simply helps with noticing. For example, maybe you notice that you hold tension in your body by clenching your fists, or that you tend to worry so much about the future that it is hard to be in the present moment. All of this is valuable information that helps you get to know yourself and your tendencies in various situations.
Journaling
Journaling is a practice of self-reflection. It allows us to freely put our thoughts out on paper. At the same time, it provides a safe space to read back the internal monologue we often have through our day-to-day lives. With journaling, you are able to notice the ways in which you tend to think and behave, and even which areas of your life you may wish to improve. Overall, it provides insight into your different life events and relationships.
Sharing Emotions
Get comfortable with sharing! Sharing your emotions with others fosters healthy communication and invites others to express their thoughts and experiences. Through hearing other people’s stories we are able to reflect on our own.
In the end, as we work to increase our emotional awareness we learn to effectively express and process our emotions, paving a journey toward happiness. Sometimes this is easier said than done, so if you find you want some extra guidance on your journey, reach out to us at Dóchas Psychological Services by email (info@dochaspsychologicalservices.com) or by phone at (780-446-0300). Take care of yourselves!
Resources:
- Relational Self Awareness podcast
- How Self-Awareness Helps Relationships Become Stronger, and Ultimately, Last
- Self Awareness 101: How to Improve Your Relationship By Focusing Inward
About Dóchas Psychological
Dóchas Psychological Services is a well-established and trusted therapy clinic located in Spruce Grove, Alberta. At Dóchas we value the idea that everyone deserves a safe space. Through connection and education, our team works hard to build a trustworthy relationship with each of our clients. It is our goal to create a community for our clients to feel like they belong.
Disclaimer
Information provided through Dóchas Psychological Services blogs or vlogs is meant for educational purposes only. They are NOT medical or mental health advice. You can read more about our disclaimer here.
