“Who am I?” is one of life’s oldest questions. Finding yourself doesn’t have to be a grand quest. Often, it’s about noticing who you already are and gently exploring what matters to you.
Here are nine tips for getting to know yourself better.
1. Spend time alone
Quiet time without distractions can help you notice your thoughts and feelings.
2. Keep a journal
Writing regularly can reveal patterns in what you care about and what drains you.
3. Notice what you enjoy
Pay attention to activities that make you lose track of time. They often say something about you.
4. Reflect on your values
What matters most to you? Kindness, creativity, honesty, adventure? Your values can guide your choices.
5. Try something new
New experiences can reveal interests and strengths you didn’t know you had.
6. Listen to your feelings
Feelings can show you what matters. Notice what makes you feel peaceful, uneasy or excited.
7. Ask people who know you
Friends and family may see strengths in you that you overlook. Ask them what they appreciate about you.
8. Notice old beliefs
Some ideas about who you should be come from others. Ask, Is this really mine?
9. Be patient
Getting to know yourself is a lifelong process. You don’t need all the answers now.
How little is enough
Tonight, write down three things you enjoyed this week. Notice what they have in common.
For more, read Keep true to yourself.
If writing helps you make sense of change, there’s a short guided journal waiting on the Guides page.