Somewhere along the way, many people feel a loss of who they REALLY are? They feel as if they have left a sense of their “self” or their “I” behind as they act out what is expected of them through life, explains local Holistic Counsellor Tanya Peterson, this will always bring sadness and discontent.
Discovering and being true to your ‘self’, finding your “I” brings a sense of being whole, providing confidence and self esteem making life more fulfilled and more enjoyable and more authentic:
Finding one’s true identity and authentic self can be tricky because our culture – any culture – rewards conformity, ‘normal’ behaviour, and blending in with the crowd. Women are especially encouraged to be quiet and don't make waves, and this is past down from generation to generation. As a result, we can lose ourselves - and your ‘self’ or your sense of “I” is a terrible thing to lose.
Finding your true identity and being your “self” is the greatest gift you can give to you, your family, friends, and the world.
Some ways to help find yourself, increase your self-esteem and strengthen your confidence are:
1. Listen to your gut.To find your authentic self, put other people’s expectations aside. What do you think, feel, and want? One way to find your true identity and honour self, is to know you do care what people think...and listening to your gut anyway. You can care what people think and still be your authentic self. Listening to your gut helps with honouring your ‘self’, and finding your true identity.
2. Stay in touch with your dreams and goals.You have responsibilities to live up to, but you can still find your true identity and honour your ‘self’ in the pockets of time you do have. You can plan and picture yourself achieving your goals in the future. Visualisation and meditation can help with finding your true identity.
3. Express your true emotions.Get your anger out safely, without burying your feelings in food, cigarettes, wine, or excessive activity or let yourself feel sad and cry or write in your journal or try art, instead of shopping, watching TV, and gossiping. This way to find your authentic self involves staying in touch with your true emotions.
