Self-Awareness

Self-awareness is the foundation of resilience. It allows us to pause, reflect, and choose how we respond — rather than react — to life’s challenges.

When we become more aware of our internal experience (our thoughts, feelings, and patterns), we gain greater control over our behaviour and decision-making. This awareness enables us to build stronger relationships, adapt more easily, and navigate stress with greater skill.

What Does It Mean to Be Self-Aware?

To be self-aware means noticing what’s happening inside you:

• What am I feeling?

• What am I thinking?

• What is this reaction about?

• Where did that behaviour come from?

These questions help you move from automatic responses to intentional choices — a critical skill in becoming more resilient.

🧠 Self-Awareness in Action

Here’s an example:

You walk into a meeting and feel immediately frustrated. Instead of acting on that feeling, you pause to ask:

“What am I feeling? Why am I feeling it? What do I want to do about it?”

This short pause gives you the power to shift from a reactive state to a calm, confident response.

🔍 Reflection Prompts

Take a moment to consider:

• When do you most often get triggered or stressed?

• What emotions show up when this happens?

• What do you usually do in response?

• What might a more aware response look like?

🗒️ Optional Practice

Keep a journal this week and note:

• Moments when you felt strong emotions

• What triggered them

• How you responded

• What you learned about yourself