Finding Yourself

MC Escher

Developing any professional practice, always involves developing yourself as a human being. As sports coaches often say "a better human being, makes a better sportsperson". And developing yourself is often akin to looking for your glasses while you're wearing them. It's a paradox that many of us face in our personal growth journeys. We strive to understand who we are, yet the very tools we use for self-discovery—our minds, perceptions, and experiences—are shaped by our current state of being. This creates a unique challenge: how can we see the things that shape the things we see?

The first step in this journey is recognizing that we are often influenced by factors we cannot immediately identify. These influences might include our upbringing, societal expectations, professional expectations and even unconscious biases. By acknowledging that these unseen forces shape our thoughts and actions, we can begin to peel back the layers and see ourselves more clearly.

There are several tools and techniques that can help you gain clarity about yourself. Journaling, for instance, allows you to reflect on your thoughts and feelings over time, providing insight into your inner world. Meditation can help quiet the mind, making it easier to observe your thoughts without judgment. Seeking feedback from trusted friends or mentors can also provide an external perspective that you might not see on your own.

Self-discovery is not a destination but a continuous journey. As you grow and evolve, so too will your understanding of yourself. Embrace the uncertainties and paradoxes along the way. It's okay not to have all the answers. The important thing is to remain curious and open to learning more about who you are. By doing so, you'll find that the process of developing yourself becomes a rewarding and enlightening experience.