TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Stacey Shrader Joslin on Oct 7, 2020

Self-awareness is one of five essential inner skills, says Dr. Rick Hanson. (The others are letting go of painful experiences, insight into oneself, taking in positive experiences, and choosing well.) But when we suddenly start feeling angry or frustrated or sad — and don’t understand where those feelings are coming from — a well-developed sense of self-awareness will help us respond in more healthy and productive ways. To improve self-awareness, Hanson recommends these five practices: (1) spend a few minutes each day to “check in” with your emotions, thoughts and desires; (2) do an honest assessment of “inner world” areas that typically are ignored, suppressed, denied or disowned; (3) cultivate a daily practice that is centering and use it to create an inner sanctuary of peaceful, kind awareness; (4) reflect on the experiences of your younger self; if there are places where negative messages have been internalized, try being kind to yourself; and (5) keep practicing these skills!