Self-awareness is the first step of self-development. It’s only after you have taken a mental inventory of your strength, vulnerabilities, fears, and weaknesses that you can start formulating a plan to become the best version of yourself.

Which traits, habits, or belief systems are helping you move up in life, and which are keeping you stuck in the rut? Once you’re fully aware of what’s working for you and what’s going against you, you can start building a new life that will be more aligned with your dreams.

I am no bird, and no net ensnares me. I am a free human being with an independent will. 

The very first and easiest step is meditation, In this day and age it can be really hard to step away from the distractions of media, but sitting with yourself in a quiet mind can be so refreshing & powerful. Five of the most common types of meditation are mindfulness, body scan, walking, loving-kindness, and transcendental meditation. Different types of meditation come with different benefits, but some benefits include reduced anxiety, improved self-control, better self-care, and overall less pain.

Writing down your key plans and priorities. One of the best ways to increase self-awareness is to write down what you want to do and track your progress. Even better if you have time to do it after your fully meditated mind.

• Keep an open mind.
• Be mindful of your strengths and weaknesses.
• Stay focused.
• Set boundaries.
• Get to know your emotional triggers.
• Embrace your intuition.
• Practice self-discipline.
• Consider how your actions affect others.