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Is self-awareness self-indulgent?

By Elizabeth Cottrell

For years, the idea of spending time connecting with my best self seemed like a ridiculous indulgence. I was raising children, supporting the community, and trying to help earn some family income. There were connections I sought–with God, with others, with Nature–but with myself? Almost never.

Now, as my children are building lives and families on their own, as I contemplate how to make the best of the next phase of my life, I realize I can only make authentic decisions about what will be meaningful if I get to know myself better. What makes me tick? What makes my heart sing? What do I need to know about myself so that I can tap into my worthiest goals and my greatest potential? This is a journey, of course…a treasure hunt, in many ways, as I discover this or that about myself. I see this process not as self-indulgent, but as a responsibility to myself and my best life.

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Comments

  1. Mimi Meredith says

    June 1, 2010 at 4:53 pm

    Elizabeth, I think if every one of us would take time to reflect on this more seriously, the world would be a far, far better place. When we identify and support our best selves, then every other role in our lives benefits. Thank you for reminding me of this priority! I had almost lost the connection to myself in the shuffle of my days lately. Here’s to brewing a cup of tea and spending some time, just with me!

    Reply
    • Elizabeth Cottrell says

      June 15, 2010 at 9:29 am

      Thank you for your thoughtful response, Mimi…yes, when we lose connection with ourselves, we minimize our ability to connect with others.

      Reply

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Elizabeth Cottrell, aka RiverwoodWriter

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I am a freelance writer, ghostwriter, and blogger called to encourage readers to strengthen the bonds of faith, family, and friends and to cultivate the joy and impact of personal, handwritten notes and letters. More Info.

 
 
 
 
 
 

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