While you may have heard someone say they’re “being introspective,” did you know this is a process you can try out for yourself? “Introspection is a thinking style in which one observes and reflects upon various aspects of themselves and their existence in order to gain insight into their lives and purpose. It is used in order to help people feel more connected to who they are, clarify life choices and gain perspective on life’s challenges,” saysHaley Neidich, LCSW.
If you struggle to slow down and be in the moment, Neidich says, introspection is the perfect tool to add to your self-awareness arsenal. “Taking the time to sit in contemplation about your life and relationships can help you to uncover things that you may have been avoiding so that you can face your challenges head on,” she says. “Using introspection, you can also take the time to tap into gratitude for your experiences and current situation.” Increasing your self-awareness and gratitude can be beneficial not only for your well-being, but also for everyone else in your life. Without further ado, let’s get introspective!
How To Use Introspection In Your Daily Life
Without realizing it, you’ve probably been introspective already. Yes, you — see, you’re already doing great! If you’ve said things like, “I’m not a morning person” or “I have trust issues with my family,” explainedDr. Kevin Gilliland, PsyD and Executive Director of Innovation360. All of those realizations are introspection. “Those insights into when and where and with whom we do well or struggle is the result of introspection or reflection,” Dr. Gilliland says.
To more actively use introspection, a push from others can help. “Sometimes other people can get us started on that path, a performance review or a close friend making a comment in passing will stay with us,” Dr. Gilliland explains.
Once you’re ready to try being introspective on a more regular basis, Neidhich recommends a non-judgemental approach within a daily mindfulness routine. “This can be through journaling or through a sitting meditation in which you allow your mind to self-reflect and explore rather than asking it to quiet,” she says.
It’s completely normal for some people to get carried away or triggered while exploring introspection. If this occurs, Neidich suggests journaling with a time limit in place, even just five minutes, and let your mind go over whatever it comes up with. “The key with introspection is not to judge our thoughts or beliefs but to approach the time as if you’re a researcher exploring your own mind,” explains Neidich.
Potential Negatives of Introspection
Besidesnegative thinking, Dr. Gilliland cautions against getting too wrapped up in thinking. “We can get lost thinking about things instead of doing things and that really limits the information that we have to gain a better understanding,” he says. “It’s always easier to learn when you are moving in a direction. When we stop moving, we stop the flow of information and that can make things difficult. We have to balance thinking and doing.” Again, introspection can be incredibly beneficial — but it doesn’t stand on its own.
Who Can Benefit From Introspection?
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