Now, just so you’re prepared, I should warn you, the self is a pretty complex thing. But, since I’m in the business of self-care, it only makes sense that we’d learn how to identify it.
Right?
Duh, totally.
And for the sake of simplicity, today we're just gonna talk about the six ways to identify the self. In the next blog we'll learn ways to decipher your own personal, unique self cocktail so you can take better care of it.
But first, what is the self?
So, the self is an individual person as the object of its own reflective consciousness.
What the what?
The object of its own reflective consciousness. Hm… Let’s dissect the word consciousness for a minute.
CONSCIOUSNESS:
- The state of being aware of one's own existence, sensations, thoughts, surroundings, etc.
- The thoughts and feelings of an individual.
- Full activity of the mind and senses, as in waking life.
- Awareness of something for what it is; internal knowledge.
- Concern, interest, or acute awareness.
So, the self is really a subjective thing. It’s determined by nothing more than our perception.
We identify the self depending on what we think and feel about it. And if you read my last blogs, you know how powerful thoughts and feelings can be.
Okay, so your thoughts and feelings about yourself determine how you define your self. Put that in your pocket for now...
Now, let's get into those six ways to IDENTIFY the self.
The self basically has six departments, if you will; Mental, Practical, Social, Emotional, Physical, and Spiritual.
Each of these “departments” add a rich, complex element to your character. And in order for you to feel balanced, healthy, and fulfilled, each department needs a little TLC. Again, we're not going to get into all of that today (you'll just have to sign up for my newsletter so you don't miss out).
Anyhoo...
The Mental Self
The self that thinks critically, rationally, makes plans, and solves problems.
This methodical mother-lover is your decision maker (and a savvy bitch when it comes to self-care).
The Practical Self
The self that manages responsibilities.
This guy is your task master, and deals with time management, and organizational skills.
The Social Self
The self that determines what role you play in different relationships and social situations.
Think family, work, friends, neighbors, society, and when you’re rolling solo… You have many hats, my dear.
The Emotional Self
The self that experiences, manages, and reflects on feelings and emotions.
Better keep an eye on this kid. They’ll key you in on your needs.
The Physical Self
The self that is your entire biological being (blood, bones, organs, skin, hair, everything).
This beauty communicates with you more than you know and deserves loads of love and respect. And let me just say this: Your worth isn’t determined by the size or shape of your meat suit. Mmmkay?
The Spiritual Self
The self that connects with something bigger than the ego. The truest form of self that lives without judgement.
Without judgment?! Sweet baby Jesus does such a thing even exist? …and speaking of Jesus, the spiritual self does NOT have to be linked to religion. Not that there's anything wrong with that.
Ok. So we know what the six elements of self are. And we know we have perceptions of each of these elements.
Now what?
Well, now you start figuring out the things that will support your wellness as a WHOLE human. What makes your body feel energized? What gives you mental clarity? What makes you feel fulfilled spiritually? If you need guidance with that, check out my digital guide: Making Sense of Self Care. ...it just might help. xx
I love you.
I appreciate you.
Thank you so much for being here.
I hope to see you soon.
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Read Next:
- How to Recognize Your Self-Care Needs
- Self-Care Independence
- 5 Keys for Self-Care Independence
- #1 Mindset
- #2 Awareness
- #3 Direction
- #4 Action
- #5 Support
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