Self-Awareness

“Few are those who see with their own eyes and feel with their own hearts.”
Albert Einstein

Individuals with lower levels of Self-Awareness find it difficult to evaluate themselves objectively, and to acknowledge their strengths. Their behaviour is commonly self-deprecating. They often downplay their strengths, and focus on their weaknesses. When comparing themselves to others, these individuals tend to undervalue themselves.

The following mathematical model illustrates how individuals with low self-awareness view themselves. Possessing two strengths in one area, (for example, leadership and organization), and two strengths in another area (for example, singing and dancing), equals a score of +4. However, due to a tendency to undervalue their skills and abilities, individuals with low self-awareness see it as a score of -4. A lack of self-knowledge fuels this feeling of inadequacy.

Having greater self-awareness would allow these individuals to raise their opinion of themselves to a more realistic level, and by concentrating on their strengths, they would be able to build the confidence required to function more optimally, whether it is at work, at home, or with friends. In order to utilize one’s full potentials, it is critical to be aware of one’s strengths and weaknesses. For example, it would be unwise (and also very stressful) to pursue a particular career just because it pays well or is socially desirable if one does not have the competencies to perform well in that choice.

The quantified results, found in the Character Assessment, provide an objective view of one’s character. Based on the very comprehensive results provided through the assessment, an individual is able to clearly identify his or her strengths, and weaknesses and to make decisions about career, family, relationships and personal interests that suit the character.

In order to increase one’s self-awareness, one must not only understand his or her character but also maintain a healthy Life Balance.

A healthy level of self -awareness and life balance will result in better life choices in all areas of life such as:

• Career – choose the right education, right job, and right company with the right management aligned with our character
• Family – choose the right partner, and build healthy relationships with parents and children
• Self – cultivate hobbies, and surround one’s self with friends who can stimulate us intellectually, and provide a comfortable relational environment
• Life Goals – set a Long Term Life Plan with specific goals to achieve as well an Annual Life Plan that plots out specific activities to ensure our life is balanced and goals are constantly worked toward