“We do not learn from experience… we learn from reflecting on experience.”
—John Dewey, How We Think (1933)
Overview
Oxford defines self-reflection as “meditation or serious thought about one's character, actions, and motives.”
However, is this the full story? Self-reflection can take the form of serious thought. It can be a form of meditation. It also can be about one’s character, actions, and motives.
However, it’s essential to add that self-reflection can be intentional and implicit. We can take time each day to reflect on how our day went and what we think about our character, actions, and motives. Self-reflection can also be more implicit as it involves journaling, decision-making, and discussing how our day went with others.
Why is it beneficial?
Self-reflection can reduce our risk of mental health disorders or decrease the effect that already-existing mental health disorders have on our lives.
Self-reflection creates moments of pause. This leads to increased levels of self-awareness and emotional regulation. Through self-reflection, we can make more informed decisions (see our post) and prevent burnout (see our post). We are more likely to have lower levels of anxiety and stress when we reflect on how things are going, and we can stop anxiety-provoking things in their tracks before they get worse. Through self-reflection, we can also better understand our sense of purpose, growth, and resilience too!
How can we incorporate self-reflection into our lives?
Self-reflection can take a variety of forms, as mentioned. Here are some ideas:
Create a journal or bullet journal, or use a journaling app on your phone.
Talk to friends, relatives, or those around you about your day
Engage in mindfulness practices
Seek feedback from others!
Take a few minutes at the end of each day to engage in daily check-ins
Set goals for yourself
In conclusion…
Self-reflection can be an easy-to-incorporate aspect of our lives and has SO many benefits. Why don't you take 5 minutes now and engage in some self-reflection? Let us know how that felt!
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