 In times of uncertainty and confusion, it is easy to feel lost and disconnected from oneself. You may find yourself struggling to make sense of your thoughts and emotions, and unsure of how to move forward. Rediscovering yourself is about taking the time to connect with your true self and find clarity in times of uncertainty. It is about identifying your values, passions, and strengths to guide you toward a more fulfilling life. This article will explore the importance of rediscovering yourself in times of uncertainty and confusion and provide five steps to help you uncover your true self. These are the same five steps that Sarah followed in her story found at the end of the article. The importance of Rediscovering Yourself in Times of Uncertainty Rediscovering yourself in times of uncertainty and confusion is essential for your personal growth, well-being, and resilience. It allows you to gain clarity on what truly matters to you and helps you to navigate challenging situations with more ease. By identifying your values and strengths, you can make decisions that align with your purpose and direction. You can also identify areas of your life that need attention, such as unhelpful habits or limiting beliefs. Rediscovering yourself also helps you to develop self-awareness, Self-awareness is crucial in times when you feel befuddled and bewildered as it allows you to understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It enables you to recognize your triggers and patterns of behavior that may be holding you back. By gaining self-awareness, you can make changes that improve your relationships, career, and overall well-being. Five Steps to Rediscover Yourself in Times of Uncertainty and Confusion. 1. Practice Self-Reflection. The first step to rediscovering yourself when you are feeling uncertain and confused is self-reflection. Take some time to reflect on your thoughts and emotions. Consider what is causing these feelings. Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal or notebook. Reflect on how you can navigate those challenges in a way that aligns with your values and strengths. 2. Identify Your Core Values Your core values are the principles and beliefs that guide your decisions and actions. They are especially important in times of uncertainty and confusion as they provide a foundation for making decisions. Take some time to identify your core values. Write down your top five values and reflect on how they can guide you through uncertain times. 3. Discover Your Passion Passion is an essential ingredient for a fulfilling life. It can provide you with a sense of purpose and direction, especially during times of uncertainty and confusion. Take some time to discover your passion. Think about the things that bring you joy and fulfillment. Write down your passions and reflect on how you can incorporate them into your life in uncertain times. 4. Practice Mindfulness Mindfulness is the practice of being present and aware of your thoughts, emotions, and surroundings. It can help you to develop self-awareness and improve your overall well-being. Take some time to practice mindfulness each day. You can do this through meditation, deep breathing, or simply being present in the moment. By practicing mindfulness, you can navigate the choppy waters of perplexity and indecisiveness with more clarity and ease. 5. Take Action The final step to rediscovering yourself in times of uncertainty and confusion is to take action. Use the insights you have gained from self-reflection, identifying your core values, discovering your passion, and practicing mindfulness to make positive changes in your life. Set goals that align with your values and passions and take action to achieve them. Remember that Progress takes time, so be patient with yourself and celebrate your achievements along the way. Sarah’s Story This is a story reflective of many of my clients who sought direction in their lives. Sarah had always been a confident and ambitious person. She had a clear idea of what she wanted in life and was determined to achieve it. She had a successful career, a loving partner, and a close group of friends. But over the past several months, Sarah had begun to feel disconnected, uncertain of her direction, and confused. She couldn’t put her finger on what had triggered these feelings. It wasn’t like anything major had happened in her life. But she couldn’t shake the feeling of unease that had settled in the pit of her stomach. She began to question the decisions she had made in the past and the direction she seemed to be heading. At work, Sarah found herself constantly second-guessing her decisions. She used to be confident in her abilities, but now she was afraid of making mistakes. She found it difficult to focus and was easily distracted by her thoughts. In her personal life, Sarah felt disconnected from her partner and friends. She found it hard to engage in conversations and felt like she was just going through the motions. She had lost interest in the things that used to bring her joy, like reading and traveling. One day, Sarah confided in her friend Gloria about how she was feeling. Gloria listened patiently and then suggested that Sarah try to reconnect with herself. She recommended that Julie take some time to reflect on her values, passions, and strengths. Gloria suggested that Sarah write down her thoughts and feelings in a journal to gain clarity. Sarah was hesitant at first, but she decided to give it a try. She set aside some time each day to reflect on her thoughts and emotions. She started to identify patterns in her behavior and thoughts that were holding her back. She realized that she had been neglecting her own needs and desires in an attempt to please others. As Sarah began to rediscover herself she started to feel more confident and purposeful. She identified her core values, including creativity, connection, and growth. She also discovered that she had a passion for photography, something she had always been interested in but had never pursued. Sarah started to incorporate her values and passions into her life. She started taking photography classes and began to connect with like-minded people. She also started to communicate her needs more clearly to her partner and friends, which brought her closer to them. As Sarah rediscovered herself, she realized that uncertainty and confusion were a natural part of the journey of self-discovery. She had gained a new sense of purpose and direction and felt more confident in her decisions. She knew that she still had a lot to learn and explore, but she was excited about the journey ahead. In Conclusion Uncertainty and confusion can leave you feeling lost and disconnected from yourself. However, by embarking on the journey of discovering yourself, you can gain a deeper understanding of who you are and what you want in life. By identifying your core values, discovering your passion, and practicing mindfulness, you can make positive changes that align with your true self. Remember that the process of rediscovery takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it. Embrace the journey and trust that you have the strength and resilience to navigate uncertain times with clarity and purpose. As always, keep well, stay safe, and continue becoming the best version of yourself. Thank you for reading. Richard Richard Fontanie
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 Life is full of obstacles, challenges, and setbacks. They come no matter how carefully we plan our lives. We will undoubtedly encounter several situations along our life’s journey that will test our resilience, strength, and determination. Sometimes we are knocked down by life’s hardships, while at other times we emerge from them stronger than before. How we react to these challenges is what ultimately defines who we are and who we will become. The ability to pick ourselves up after a fall or a disturbing setback and continue with renewed determination relates to our theme this year of self-renewal. Self-renewal is a concept that often refers to the process of restoring oneself after experiencing a setback or a difficult time in life. It involves taking stock of our life experiences, learning from them, and using the lessons learned to grow and develop as a person. Self-renewal is an essential tool that can help us not only recover from setbacks but also learn and grow from those experiences. By taking the time to reflect on life lessons learned along the way, we can gain a new perspective and use what we’ve learned to our advantage in the future. The Importance of Life Lessons The value of life lessons lies in our ability to grow and develop as individuals. Life lessons are often learned through difficult or painful experiences, but they provide us with the opportunity to learn from our mistakes, gain new insights, and become better equipped to face future challenges. The lessons we learn from our experiences can help us build resilience, gain perspective, and develop a positive attitude toward life. Life lessons can help us to appreciate the good things in life and to live in the present moment. They are valuable because they can inspire us to make better decisions, avoid repeating past mistakes, and ultimately, become better versions of ourselves. According to Viktor Frankl, we can use life challenges to fuel our personal growth. In his book ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’, he writes that “the meaning of life is found in every moment of living.” Life can be difficult, but it is through these challenges that we learn and grow. We can use the lessons we have learned from life to self-renew by reflecting on our experiences and learning from them. This too helps us become better versions of ourselves and to live more meaningful lives. Frankl’s story provides us with a remarkable example of how we can use life lessons to self-renew. After surviving years in a Nazi concentration camp, he went on to become a renowned psychologist and author. His experience in the camp helped him to develop his theory of logotherapy, which has helped countless people find meaning in their lives. Frankl’s story shows us that it is possible to use even the most difficult experiences to fuel our personal growth. How to Use Life Lessons to Self-Renew To use life lessons to self-renew, we need to take a deliberate approach to reflect on our experiences. Here are some steps that can help you along the way. Acknowledge Your Mistakes The first step is to acknowledge that you have made a mistake. This can be difficult, especially if you are used to putting up a front and pretending everything is o.k. Everyone makes mistakes in life, and mistakes are some of the best tools for learning about life. The simple aspect of acknowledging you mistakes can help you learn from them. Reflect on What You Have Learned. The second step is to take some time to reflect on what you’ve learned from your experiences. What could you have done differently? What did you do well? How will you apply what you’ve learned in the future? Asking yourself these questions can help you gain clarity, and perspective, and move forward in a positive way. When reflecting on your experiences, it’s important to identify both the positive and negative aspects. Acknowledge the mistakes you make and the things you wish you had done differently. However, also take the time to recognize what you did well and the strengths you demonstrated during the experience. Focusing only on the negative can be detrimental to your self-esteem, and confidence, and hinder your ability to grow. Once you have identified both the positive and negative points of your experience, consider how you can use what you have learned in the future. Reflect on how your experience has changed your perspective or how you can apply your newfound knowledge to other areas of your life. It is also essential to recognize that reflection is an ongoing process. Just because you have taken the time to reflect on a specific experience doesn’t mean that you can’t continue to learn and grow from it in the future. Continue to revisit your reflections periodically and consider how your experience has influenced your behavior. Ultimately, the goal of reflection is to gain a deep understanding of yourself and your experiences. By doing so, you can use what you have learned to guide your future actions and decisions. Take Action! The third step is to take action based on what you have learned. Reflection is only useful if you apply what you have learned to your life. It is not enough to simply acknowledge your mistakes and reflect on what you have learned. You must also take action to apply what you’ve learned to your life. For example, if you realize that you need to make a change in your life, take action to make that change. Don’t let fear or self-doubt hold you back. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that change is too difficult or that you’re not capable of making the necessary changes. However, it’s important to remember that self-renewal is a process, and change takes time. If you are struggling to take action, break down your goals into small, achievable steps. This can make the process feel less overwhelming and help you build momentum toward achieving your goals. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and use it as motivation to continue taking action in the future. Another important aspect of taking action is to hold yourself accountable. Set deadlines for yourself and find someone who can hold you accountable for achieving your goals. This can be a friend, a family member, a coach, a therapist, and an understanding supervisor in your place of work. Having someone who can provide support and accountability can help you stay on track and achieve what you have set out to do. Now as you experience, reflect, and take action consider these other life-changing experiences: Learn From Others Another way to learn from your experiences is to learn from others. Seek out someone who has faced similar challenges and had found ways to overcome them. They may be able to offer you valuable advice and support and can help you see things from a different perspective. Additionally, reading books or listening to podcasts about individuals who have faced similar challenges can provide you with inspiration and guidance. Practice Self-Care Self-renewal requires energy and focus, and it’s difficult to achieve if you’re physically and emotionally drained. Therefore, practicing self-care is crucial to your ability to engage in self-renewal. This can involve engaging in activities that help you relax and unwind, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature. It can also involve taking care of your physical health by eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding harmful substances. Embrace Change Self-renewal involves a willingness to embrace change. This can be uncomfortable because change asks us to do something different and uncertain. However, it is important to remember that change is a part of life and that resisting it can hold us back from achieving our goals. Rather than fearing change, try to embrace it and see it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Celebrate Your Successes As we journey in life it is important to celebrate our successes. Yes, self-renewal is a journey, and so it is important to acknowledge and celebrate the progress we make along the way. This can help us keep motivated and positive, and can also provide us with a sense of accomplishment. To Conclude Self-renewal is a powerful tool that can help us recover from setbacks and grow from our experiences. By taking the time to reflect on those experiences, learn from others, practice self-care, embrace change, and celebrate our successes, we can engage in self-renewal and become the best versions of ourselves. It is important to remember as well that self-renewal throughout life’s journey is not a one-time event, but rather a continuous flow of learning, growing, and evolving. So next time you face a challenge, remember to use the power of self-renewal to overcome it and emerge stronger and wiser on the other side. Let the lessons you have learned along your journey be your inspiration. Thank you for reading folks. Stay safe, keep healthy, and as this article points out continue becoming the best version of yourself. Richard Fontanie  In a world that often values routine and familiarity, it’s easy to forget the importance of staying curious and embracing new experiences. Here is a story about an elderly woman who refused to let age or routine hinder her thirst for adventure. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of curiosity and vitality. Claire had spent her entire life living in the same town. Although she had enjoyed a comfortable life, she felt as if something was missing. Claire yearned for adventure and excitement, but she didn’t know where to start. One day, a friend introduced her to a group of people who enjoyed traveling and exploring new places. At first, Claire was hesitant, but decided to give it a try and joined them on a trip to a nearby city. To her surprise, she found the experience exhilarating. She relished discovering new sights, sounds, and tastes. Encouraged by this experience, Claire began to seek out more adventures. She enrolled in a painting class, took up hiking, and started attending cultural events in her community. With each new experience, she felt more invigorated and fulfilled. As time passed, Claire became known for her infectious curiosity and enthusiasm. She was always eager to try new things, and her zest for life inspired others around her. Even in her later years, Clair remained vibrant and engaged, always eager to embrace the unknown. In the end, Claire’s dedication to staying curious and vibrant allowed her to lead a life full of joy and wonder, and she became an inspiration to those around her. Clair’s journey demonstrates how seeking out new experiences and challenging ourselves can invigorate our spirits, expand our horizons, and lead to a more fulfilling life. The world of stories and ideas are a wonderful thing. They can take us to places we've never been, introduce us to new concepts and ideas, and help us see the world in new and interesting ways. On the other hand, it’s easy for us to fall into the trap of repetitive thinking and lose sight of the potential for growth and exploration. This is why it's so important to regularly renew our minds. One strategy is to actively pursue new and challenging experiences. This may entail traveling to new places, mastering a new skill or language, or engaging with people who have different perspectives from our own. By exposing ourselves to the unknown, we can keep our minds fresh and vibrant. We can again take the child within us out to play. Self-Renewal Can Make You Happier Self-renewal involves setting aside time to restore and revitalize ourselves. While the ways we do this may differ from person to person, some popular approaches include exercising, journaling, and communing with nature. By prioritizing self-renewal, we invest in our own well-being and happiness. People who are vibrant and content tend to be more productive, foster better relationships, and live longer. So if you're looking for a way to boost your happiness, start by making self-renewal a priority. Even taking as little as 10 minutes a day to concentrate on your personal needs can make a significant difference. How You Can Foster A Renewing Mindset A self-renewing mindset is one in which we are constantly growing, learning, and broadening our perspective. It’s a proactive approach that acknowledges we always have room for improvement and new learning. This type of mindset is pivotal for achieving sustained success, as it enables us to respond to new opportunities and challenges, as well as turn the challenges we face into opportunities. While numerous ways can nourish a self-renewing mindset, the following provides five key strategies. 1. Pursue Your Passions. One of the best ways to stay curious and vibrant is to follow your passions. This can be anything from playing music to cooking to reading and to traveling. Engaging in activities that we enjoy can reduce stress, increase happiness, and improve overall life satisfaction. Pursuing your passions often involves learning new skills or knowledge, leading to constant curiosity and greater understanding. This could lead you to greater creativity and personal growth, allowing you to discover new strengths and overcome challenges, resulting in living a more fulfilling and vibrant life. 2. Be Open to new ideas and perspectives. Learn something new every day. Learning is an essential part of remaining curious and vibrant. It doesn’t have to be anything big – it could be as simple as reading an article or watching a TED talk. The key is to make a conscious effort to learn something new on a daily basis. By doing so, you will keep your mind active and engaged, which will also help you stave off boredom and lethargy. Curiosity is defined as a strong desire to know or learn something. It is often associated with exploration and learning. People who are curious are typically inquisitive and open-minded. They are always eager to explore new ideas and ask questions. Curiosity is a critical component of self-renewal. Instead of accepting things at face value, we should constantly question and explore. We could ask, why do we believe what we believe? What are other possible explanations for the things we see and experience? By maintaining a healthy sense of curiosity, we can ensure that our minds remain open and flexible, ready to embrace new ideas and perspectives. 3. Embrace Change and Uncertainty Change is inevitable, so instead of resisting it, learn to embrace it. Embracing change doesn’t mean that you have to like everything that happens, but it does mean that you accept that life is dynamic and always evolving. When you’re open to change, you’re better able to adapt and adjust as needed. Change can also be intimating, but it presents an opportunity to learn and grow. When you embrace change, you are more likely to stay curious and vibrant. You know, when we step outside our comfort zones we open ourselves up to new experiences and perspectives. 4. Practice Self-Awareness Self-awareness is key to personal growth because it allows us to identify areas where we need improvement. Pay attention to your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors on a daily basis, and be honest with yourself about where you need to make changes. Through self-awareness, you can develop a better understanding of who you are and what you want out of life. One of the best ways to become more self-aware is by engaging in the practice of being present in the moment. You can do this through the practice of mindfulness or meditation. When we are mindful, we are more likely to notice the world around us, appreciate the beauty of everyday life, and be grateful for it. Mindfulness can also help us cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity. By staying present and engaged in what is going on around us, we are more tuned into noticing the small things that make life interesting. It may also help us engage with others, be grateful for them, be open to their hurts, and be more forgiving of the things we have done and what they have done to us. 5. Make Human Connections We are social creatures, and connecting with others is essential to our well-being. When we connect with others, we are more likely to learn from their experiences and perspectives. We are also more likely to engage in activities that we might not have considered on our own. By building positive relationships with others, we can expand our horizons and enrich our lives. Strengthening our relationships with others takes time and effort, but we also receive immeasurable rewards. We can connect with them through various means, such as joining a social club, participating in community events, attending a faith community, or engaging in networking events. We can also use technology to link up with people online or broaden our social circles. Overall, connecting with others is essential to staying curious and vibrant. By building our relationships with others, we can expand our horizons, learn from their experiences and perspectives, and engage in new activities that can enhance our lives. So, it’s essential to prioritize social connections and make time to nurture the relationships we have with others. In Conclusion Learn to be like Claire. Staying curious and vibrant is one of the keys to living a fulfilling life. By pursuing our passions, learning something new every day, embracing change, practicing becoming self-aware, and connecting with others, we can cultivate a sense of vitality and inquisitiveness that will serve us well. It’s never too late to start…so why not make today the day you begin your journey toward a more vibrant and curious life. Thank you for reading and remember always to stay safe, remain healthy and become the person you were meant to be. Richard Richard Fontanie  To truly gain insight into who you are, you must first grasp how you change and develop over time. We are in a continual state of evolution, and this aspect of self-renewal is vital to our overall well-being. Let's examine this element of self-renewal more closely and explore why it is so critical.
Self-renewal involves shedding our old personas and embracing new ones in response to our internal and external influences. It enables us to give up outdated concepts and beliefs, adjust to new circumstances, and enhance our understanding of ourselves. We are like the caterpillar that goes through a transformative process to become the beautiful butterfly. This is a wonderful metaphor for our own growth and self-renewal. The caterpillar undergoes a process of transformation in which it sheds its old identity and emerges as the colorful butterfly. We also can go through a process of transformative change by changing our old beliefs and habits and emerging as more resilient and adaptable individuals. This is a powerful reminder of the potential for growth and renewal that exists within all of us. We all Grow and Evolve Over Time. As we evolve in life, we undergo personal development and transformation. This process can result in minor changes, such as experimenting with hairstyles or trying out new cuisine. Other times it could result in beginning a new career, starting a business, or embracing parenthood. Regardless of the extent of the change, we need to acknowledge that we continue to evolve and develop as individuals. That’s why it’s essential to understand who we are and how we grow and transform in life. When you understand who you are, it is easier to adjust to changes that come your way. Additionally, you can leverage this knowledge to make constructive changes in your life, such as embarking on new challenges at work or making major lifestyle changes. We all have the capacity to improve ourselves – the key lies in discovering how to harness it. Here are five ways you can make constructive changes in your life. Set clear goals: Identify what you want to achieve and break it down into manageable steps. Having specific, measurable goals can help you stay focused and motivated. Develop positive habits: Identify the habits or behaviors that are holding you back and work on replacing them with positive ones. This could involve practicing self-care, setting healthy boundaries, or adopting a growth mindset. Embrace new experiences: Trying new things can help you expand your perspective and challenge yourself in new ways. This could involve taking up a new hobby, traveling to a new place, or trying a new type of cuisine. Cultivate a support system: Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you. This could include family, friends, mentors, or a therapist. Continuously learn and grow: Keep learning and seeking out opportunities to develop new skills or knowledge. This could involve taking classes, attending workshops or seminars, or reading books on topics that interest you. Self-renewal is the process of understanding your transformative power over time. It's about recognizing your own strengths and weaknesses and learning how to use that knowledge to your advantage. It also involves embracing change and discovering ways to grow from it since change is an inescapable way of life. Here are five ways to embrace change and evolve from it: Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness can help you stay present and focused on the present moment. This can help you become more comfortable with change and reduce anxiety about the future. Learn from the past: Reflect on past experiences of change and identify what you learned from them. Use this knowledge to help you adapt to future changes. Stay flexible: Embrace flexibility and remain open to new possibilities. Be willing to adjust your plans and expectations as circumstances change. Take action: Identify specific steps you can take to navigate change and take action on them. This can help you feel more in control and empowered during periods of transition. Seek support: Reach out to family, friends, or a professional support system to help you cope with change. Talking through your feelings with someone can provide validation and help you gain perspective on the situation. There are several reasons why self-renewal is so important. Why is self-renewal so important? For starters, it enhances your ability to cope with challenges and become more resilient. When you understand who you are and how you do things, you’re better equipped to navigate the choppy waters in your life. Additionally, you are more inclined to recover from setbacks because you understand that there is always room to become your better self. Here are five ways you can become more resilient when facing those choppy waters: Self-awareness: By gaining self-awareness you can have greater insight into your strengths and weaknesses. This self-awareness helps you identify areas where you may struggle and develop strategies to overcome these challenges. Adaptability: Resilient people are adaptable and flexible in the face of change. Practice being open to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, rather than as threats. Positive mindset: Resilient people tend to have a positive mindset, focusing on opportunities rather than obstacles. They believe they have the ability to overcome challenges and setbacks. To cultivate a positive mindset, try reframing negative thoughts into positive ones and practice gratitude by focusing on the things you’re grateful for. Learn from failures: Resilient people view failures as opportunities for growth and learning. Instead of dwelling on mistakes or setbacks, use them as opportunities to identify areas for improvement and develop new skills. Embrace a growth mindset and focus on progress rather than perfection. Self-renewal empowers you to accept change rather than fear it. Another vital aspect of self-renewal is that it empowers you to accept change rather than fear it. While change can be intimidating, it needn’t be. When you fully understand yourself, you can see change as a way to grow rather than a threat. We undergo continual transformation throughout our lives, so it is better to welcome them instead of fearing them. Adopting this optimistic attitude will help you face new challenges with confidence instead of apprehension. The following are five ways you can embrace change rather than fear it. Reframe your perspective: Instead of viewing change as something to be feared, try to see it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Look for the positives that can come from the change and focus on the benefits that it can bring. Focus on the present moment: Fear of the unknown future is often what makes us afraid of change. By focusing on the present moment, you can reduce anxiety and stay grounded in the here and now. Practice mindfulness or meditation. Prepare for the change: Sometimes, fear of change comes from a sense of uncertainty or lack of control. By taking proactive steps to prepare for the change, you can feel more confident and in control. Do your research, ask questions, and make a plan for how you will handle the change. Embrace flexibility: Being flexible and adaptable can help you navigate change more easily. Try to be open to different outcomes and be willing to adjust your plans as needed. Embrace a growth mindset and view change as an opportunity to learn and develop new skills. Seek Support: Change can be challenging, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues for support, or consider speaking with a therapist or coach who can help you work through any fears or anxieties that you may have. Remember, you don’t have to face change alone. In Conclusion Self-renewal is a powerful process that allows us to understand ourselves better and embrace change in all areas of our life. By accepting change and becoming more resilient, we can unlock our full potential and achieve our goals. Whether it’s through seeking new experiences, learning from failures, or taking steps toward personal growth, self-renewal is a necessary element for anyone who wants to live a successful and fulfilling life. So take the time to understand who you are and how you change over time and use that knowledge to embrace change and become the best version of yourself. Thank you for reading, and always remember to keep healthy, enjoy life, and continue to be the best version of yourself. Richard, Richard Fontanie  We all want to live happy and fulfilling lives, but sometimes it's hard to know where to start. If you're feeling stuck, or feeling you’re not living up to your potential, self-renewal can be a great way to jumpstart your journey to a fuller life. It’s like turning things upside down and opening new opportunities. Self-renewal is about making time for the things that bring you joy, peace, and fulfillment, and letting go of the things that don't. When you make self-renewal a priority, you open yourself up to new possibilities and ways of thinking and living. As a result, you can live a more authentic, richer life. Self-renewal isn't selfish. It is essential for one's development. When you take care of yourself, you're better able to show up for the people and things you care about in your life. You have more energy, more patience, and more compassion. So if you're ready to start living a fuller life, read on for some tips on how to kick-start yourself into action. 1. Make Time For Hobbies and Interests Outside of Work It's important to have passions and pursuits outside of our careers so that we don't lose sight of what brings us joy in life. Whether it's painting, playing an instrument, taking photographs, or anything else that sparks your creativity. Making time for hobbies can help us lead a more well-rounded life. Here are a few more ideas for you: Identify a hobby of interest: Start by thinking about activities that interest you. Do you enjoy art, sports, music, or reading? Identify something that you enjoy and would like to spend more time doing. Make time for it: Schedule a regular time for your hobby or interest. It can be challenging to find time for it amidst work and other commitments, but it's important to prioritize it in your schedule. Invest in the necessary resources: Depending on your hobby or interest, you may need to invest in resources or equipment to get started. For example, if you're interested in painting, you may need to purchase paint and canvases. If you're interested in playing an instrument, you may need to purchase an instrument and take lessons. These may be simple suggestions but they are important considerations. Find a community: Consider joining a community of people who share your hobby or interest. This can be a great way to connect with others and learn from their experiences. Keep learning: Continually challenge yourself to improve and learn more about your hobby or interest. Attend workshops or conferences, read books or articles on the subject, or find a mentor who can provide guidance. By the way, it is never too late to develop a hobby. Emile was in his seventies when he took up the fiddle, and now in his eighties, he shares his talents with those who live in care homes. By pursuing a hobby or interest, you can find joy and fulfillment in your free time while also fostering personal growth, creativity, and a sharing attitude. It's important to remember that self-renewal is an ongoing process, so don't be afraid to try new things and explore different activities over time. 2. Connect With Others. Spend time with people who uplift and inspire you. Join a social group, volunteer, or simply make time for quality conversation with friends and family. "Quality time" doesn't have to mean fancy dinners or expensive vacations – sometimes the simplest moments spent with those we love are the most cherished. Whether it's family movie night, going out for ice cream, or just taking a walk together. Nurturing our relationships is an essential part of self-renewal. Here are some things to consider… Prioritize quality time with loved ones: Make time in your schedule for quality time with your family and friends. Whether it's a weekly phone call, dinner together, or a day trip, make an effort to spend meaningful time with the people who matter to you. Listen actively: When you're spending time with loved ones, make an effort to listen actively and be present in the moment. Show genuine interest in their lives and be supportive and empathetic. Express gratitude: Expressing gratitude for the people in your life can strengthen your relationships and improve your overall well-being. Take time to acknowledge and appreciate the people who bring positivity and joy to your life. Be vulnerable: Vulnerability is a crucial aspect of building strong relationships. Be open and honest with your loved ones about your thoughts and feelings and be receptive to their feedback and support. Forgive and let go: Conflict and disagreements are inevitable in any relationship. Learning to forgive and let go of grudges is essential for maintaining healthy relationships. Meet new people: Meeting new people can broaden your perspective, provide new opportunities, and enhance your personal growth. Join a club, attend social events, or take a class to expand your social circle and meet new people. Seek out mentorship: A mentor can provide valuable guidance and support as you navigate personal and professional challenges. Seek out mentorship opportunities in your field or community to gain insight and support from experienced individuals. By building and maintaining strong relationships, you can experience a greater sense of connectedness and fulfillment in your life. Remember that relationships require ongoing effort and communication, so make an effort to prioritize and nurture the relationships that matter most to you. 3. Take On New Challenges Challenge yourself to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things. Whether it’s taking a solo trip or starting a new business venture, taking risks can help you develop resilience and foster personal growth. Engaging in meaningful work is an essential aspect of incorporating self-renewal into one's life. Here are some ways to do just that… Identify your values and strengths: Start by identifying your values and strengths. Consider what you're passionate about and what you're naturally good at. This can help you determine what type of work would be meaningful for you. Set goals and priorities: Once you've identified your values and strengths, set goals and priorities for your work. Consider what you want to achieve in your career and what steps you need to take to get there. Pursue opportunities for growth: Seek out opportunities for professional development, such as training programs, mentorship, or further education. This can help you develop new skills and expand your knowledge, leading to greater personal and professional growth. Find purpose in your work: Finding purpose in your work can enhance your sense of meaning and fulfillment. Consider how your work aligns with your values and how it makes a positive impact on the world. Prioritize work-life balance: Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for avoiding burnout and maintaining overall well-being. Make time for hobbies, family, and friends, and set boundaries between work and personal life. Cultivate a positive work environment: A positive work environment can significantly impact your job satisfaction and overall well-being. Be kind and supportive to your colleagues and seek out opportunities to collaborate and contribute to a positive team dynamic. Seek out work that aligns with your values: Finding work that aligns with your values can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Consider the mission and values of the organization or company you work for and whether they align with your own. By engaging in meaningful work, you can experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment in your career. Spend time to regularly reflect on your values and goals and to seek out opportunities for growth and development. 4. Practice Self-care Make time for activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation. Prioritizing self-care can help you feel more energized and focused. Here are some ways to practice self-care… Make time for physical exercise: Physical exercise is an essential component of self-care as it has numerous physical and mental health benefits. Choose an exercise routine that you enjoy and fits your schedule, such as going for a run, doing yoga, or taking a dance class. Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet is crucial to your physical and mental well-being. Include a variety of nutrient-dense foods in your meals and snacks and limit the intake of processed and high-sugar foods. Prioritize rest and sleep: Adequate rest and sleep are essential for physical and mental rejuvenation. Make sure to get enough sleep and take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Mindfulness and relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation can help manage stress and improve mental health. It also places you in a space giving you room to grow spiritually. . Set boundaries: Setting boundaries is an essential aspect of self-care, as it helps protect your time, energy, and mental well-being. Say no to commitments or activities that you don't want to do and prioritize activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Seek professional support when needed: It's okay to ask for help when you need it. Seek professional support from a therapist, counselor, or medical professional when necessary. By prioritizing self-care, you can reduce stress, increase resilience, and improve overall physical and mental well-being, all of which contribute to a fuller and more fulfilling life. Remember to make self-care a regular part of your routine and be kind to yourself as you navigate the journey of self-renewal. 5. Learn Something New Take a course, attend a workshop, or read a book on a subject that interests you. Learning new skills and knowledge can help you expand your horizons and develop new perspectives. Learning something new is an excellent way to incorporate self-renewal into one's life. Here are some ways to do it... Identify an area of interest: Identify a subject or skill you would like to learn more about. Consider what you're passionate about or what skills would benefit you in your personal or professional life. Research learning opportunities: Depending on your interests and learning style, there are a variety of ways to learn something new. You could take a course or workshop, read books or articles on the subject, attend a conference or seminar, or seek out a mentor or coach. Make a plan: Once you've identified a learning opportunity, create a plan for how you will learn and what resources you will need. Consider setting goals and timelines for your learning. Stay committed: Learning something new can be challenging, so staying committed and motivated is important. Find ways to stay engaged and interested in the subject, such as by joining a study group or attending events related to the topic. Apply your knowledge: Once you've learned something new, find ways to apply your knowledge in your personal or professional life. This can help reinforce what you've learned and provide a sense of accomplishment. Learning something new can help expand your knowledge and skills, boost your confidence, and provide new opportunities for personal and professional growth. It's important to remember that learning is a lifelong process, so don't be afraid to explore new subjects and continue expanding your knowledge over time. In Conclusion. By focusing on personal growth, physical health, emotional well-being, spiritual health, positive relationships, and meaningful work, we can enhance our overall well-being and cultivate a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment. While it may require effort and dedication, the rewards of self-renewal are significant, and the benefits can be felt across all areas of our lives. By committing and prioritizing self-renewal, we can unlock our full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. Thank you for reading, stay safe, be well, and continue becoming the best version of yourself. Richard Richard Fontanie We all have had those moments where we feel like we could run a marathon. We are so full of energy and life that nothing seems impossible. Unfortunately, these moments are often fleeting, and we can find ourselves struggling to summon the same level of energy day after day. This is where self-renewal comes in. Self-renewal is the process of recharging your physical, mental, and emotional batteries so that you can approach each day with enthusiasm and vitality. When you take the time to renew yourself on a regular basis, you will find that you have the energy and drive to live your best life and be your best self. Here are some ways you can continue incorporating self-renewal into your daily life. 1. Get Enough Sleep Most people need around eight hours of sleep per night in order to function at their best during the day. If you find yourself frequently tired or reliant on caffeine to get through the day, chances are you are not getting enough restful sleep. Experiment with different bedtimes and wake-up times until you find a sleep schedule that works for you and stick to it as much as possible. You will be amazed at how much better you feel when you are well-rested! Experiment with power naps as well. If you are feeling tired, taking a quick 20-30 minute nap can help refresh your mind and body. Just be careful not to nap for too long, as this can make it harder to fall asleep at night. You can even try taking a power nap at work. Taking power naps at work can be a great way to refresh your mind and increase your energy levels during the day. However, when taking a power nap at work make sure you follow company policy on this matter. Many employers are recognizing the importance of sleep as a productivity and safety measure and are building sleep pods and quiet rooms for over-tired employees. Even if employers are open to power naps at work, this does not excuse you from getting a good night’s sleep on your own. As mentioned above sleep is an important ingredient for your health and well-being. On the other hand, employers should not use their power nap policy as an abusive productivity measure. If power naps are acceptable at your places of work here are some tips for making them effective.
By following these tips, you can take effective power naps at work and increase your productivity and energy levels throughout the day. 2. Eat healthily What we put into our bodies has a direct impact on how we feel both physically and mentally. When we fuel our bodies with nutritious food, we give ourselves the energy we need to power through our days. Remember though, processed foods and sugary snacks may give us a quick burst of energy, but it is quickly followed by an inevitable crash. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein in your diet for sustained energy throughout the day. Remember as well, that dehydration can cause tiredness and feelings of sluggishness. Drinking plenty of water throughout your day can help you feel energized and alert. Water is essential to the proper functioning of our bodies and dehydration can cause a number of negative effects, including fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Therefore, drinking enough water throughout the day can help keep you feeling energized and alert. The recommended amount of water intake varies depending on factors such as age, sex, weight, and physical activity level. As a general guideline, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommend that men aim to consume about 3.7 liters (125 ounces) of fluids per day and women aim to consume about 2.7 liters (91 ounces) of fluids per day. In addition to water, you can also consume other hydrating fluids such as herbal tea, coconut water, or fresh juice. However, it's important to limit your intake of beverages that are high in sugar or caffeine, as these can have negative effects on your energy levels. If you find it difficult to drink enough water throughout the day, here are a few tips:
By staying hydrated, you can help keep your body functioning at its best and maintain high levels of energy throughout the day. 3. Get Moving Physical activity is one of the best ways to increase your energy levels. Exercise is not only good for our physical health, but it also benefits our mental health as well. When we get our heart rates up and break a sweat, we release endorphins—the “feel-good” hormones—which can help reduce stress and improve our moods. The type of physical activity you choose doesn’t have to be strenuous to be effective. Even moderate-intensity exercise, such as a brisk walk or gentle yoga, can help boost your energy levels. It’s best to choose an activity you enjoy, as this will make it more likely that you will stick with it. For example, you may enjoy going for a walk outdoors, taking a dance class, or practicing the myriad of different sports out there. Even if you do not have time for a vigorous workout, taking a brisk walk or going for a light jog can do wonders for your energy levels. Just make sure to listen to your body and not overdo it! 4. Take Breaks It is important to take breaks throughout the day in order to rejuvenate ourselves both mentally and physically. When we push ourselves too hard without taking any time to relax, we can quickly become overwhelmed, stressed out, and burnt out. Make sure to schedule some “me” time every day—even if it is just 20 minutes! Use this time to do something calming, such as reading a book, taking a bath, or meditating. You will be amazed at how refreshed you feel after taking some time for yourself. Taking breaks at work is important for maintaining productivity and energy levels throughout the day. Here are some ways to effectively take breaks at work:
By taking regular breaks throughout the day, you can help maintain high levels of productivity and energy and reduce stress and burnout. Final Thoughts By incorporating daily self-renewal routines into your life, you will give yourself the opportunity to approach each day with enthusiasm and vitality. When you make your well-being a priority, you will find that you have the energy and drive to live your best life and be your best self! Try implementing some of the tips above into your daily life and see how much better you feel! Thank you for reading and stay safe, keep healthy, and remember to continue becoming the best version of yourself. Richard Richard Fontanie  We all know that it's important to take care of our physical health. We are bombarded with messages about the importance of exercise, eating right, and losing weight. In fact, they appear to be the most sought-after New Year’s resolutions. But what about our mental, emotional, and spiritual health? Just as our bodies need regular care and attention, so do our minds and spirits. This is where self-renewal kicks in. Self-renewal is the process of not only taking care of our physicality but also taking care of our mental, emotional, and spiritual selves. It includes activities like relaxation, recreation, and education. It's important to make time for self-renewal every day, even if it's just for a few minutes. When we take the time to renew ourselves, we are better able to handle stress, relate to others, pursue our goals, and prevent burnout. Categories of Self-Renewal Activities Many different activities can help us renew ourselves. Some examples include:
The key is to find activities that work for you and that you enjoy. Not all of these activities will appeal to everyone, but surely you can find a few that will resonate with you. And don't feel like you have to do all of them at once! Pick one or two to focus on each day or each week. Better yet take one and build it into your month, then break it down into weekly and daily activities. The important thing is to make time for self-renewal regularly. How Self-Renewal Benefits Us Taking time for self-renewal has numerous benefits. When we make self-care a priority, we are better able to manage stress, relate to others, pursue our goals, and prevent burnout. Here are a few specific ways in which self-renewal benefits us which in turn helps keep our spirits light, and at peace. 1. Keep Your Spirit Healthy And Energized One thing to keep in mind is that self-renewal performed regularly based on changes in your life and changes in your needs and desires is key to maintaining a high level of life spiritual contentment, happiness, and well-being. When our lives become dreary and we lose our excitement for living, our spirits begin to die and this can cause real inner turmoil that can affect you in your everyday life. Let’s talk a little about the difference between your spirits and your spirit. Spirits in the above context are used to describe your moods. It is also used in various other contexts, like “liquor is often expressed as spirits” or “your team has great spirit” meaning your team shows great excitement or members work together in a highly coordinated fashion. Your Spirit has another meaning, your most inner self, your soul so to speak. This is a personal and deeply held conviction that you are more than just moods. You are deep down someone who is created for a purpose. Someone who has a ‘wholeness’ and ‘holiness’ about you and you are destined to become the best version of yourself, both for you and in your relations with others. This deeply held conviction keeps you honest, trustworthy, and ethical. It also moves you to be loving, forgiving, and compassionate. 2. Self-Renewal Helps Us Relax When we relax, our bodies can repair themselves and we give our brains a much-needed break from constant stimulation. The following five relaxation techniques will induce a relaxation response within you. • Deep breathing. In this simple technique take long slow and deep breaths from your belly and not your chest. When you breathe disengage your mind from distracting thoughts and sensations. However, if you have breathing difficulties, such as respiratory ailments or heart failure make sure you check with your medical professional before taking on this technique. • Body scan. This exercise combines deep breathing with progressive muscle relaxation. After a few minutes of deep breathing focus on one part of your body or group of muscles to mentally release any physical tension you may have. One way of completing a body scan is to start at the top of your head, relax it, and then move down to your facial features, then your shoulders, and so on down to your toes. • Guided imagery. This technique involves imaging soothing scenes, places, or experiences to help you relax and focus. It is best to find scenes that have significance to you. Guided imagery takes you away from the hustle and bustle of life and improves positivity.
3. Self-Renewal Improves Our Mental Health Taking time for self-care can help improve our mental health by reducing stress levels and promoting positive thinking. As we reduce our stress levels, we are better able to think more clearly and creatively. Additionally, taking time for activities we enjoy can boost our mood and promote positive thinking overall. Here are six tips to boost your mental health.
4. Self-Renewal Strengthens Our Relationships When we make time for self-care, we are better able to show up for the people in our lives–our family members, friends, co-workers, etc. We have more patience and empathy when we've taken care of ourselves first, which leads to healthier relationships overall. Every relationship is unique and we come together for various reasons. Part of developing a healthy relationship is being clear about where you want the relationship to go. Here are some ways to do just that.
5. Self-Renewal Allows Us To Pursue Our Goals When we make time for self-renewal, we open up space in our lives to pursue the things that matter most to us–our goals, dreams, and aspirations. Making self-renewal a priority helps us live more fulfilling, purposeful lives, which feeds us with a sense of goodness. When we achieve our goals, we tap into becoming fully alive. We are on our journey to fulfilling our life's purpose and the more we can self-renew, the closer we get to reaching that point. Working towards your goals gives you structure and direction in your life, and the satisfaction of achieving them increases self-esteem and confidence. Achieving them motivates you to continue to keep going, giving you momentum, which in turn gives you a greater sense of control and purpose in life. This, in turn, can help you to get more in touch with your values and fully engage with others. Achieving your goals also provides you with personal growth opportunities and as such encourages you to improve your understanding of your identity, your capabilities, and your potential. Final Thoughts Self-renewal is essential for maintaining our mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health. When we make time for self-care, we are better able, to manage stress, relate to others, and pursue our goals. It is important to recognize that taking care of oneself is not a selfish act, but one that is necessary so that we can give to others. Many different activities can help us renew ourselves–the key is finding the ones that work best for us. So, take some time today for yourself–you deserve it! As always, stay safe, keep well, and continue becoming the best version of yourself. Richard, Richard Fontanie 
Self-renewal is hard work and can lead to creating stress for you. Managing stress though is important for maintaining overall health and well-being. If you are having difficulty managing stress during your renewal process then read on as this article gives you six effective ways along with actions for implementing them. 1. Practice deep breathing. Deep breathing exercises, also known as diaphragmatic breathing or belly breathing, can help to reduce stress and anxiety by slowing down your heart rate and calming your nervous system. This type of breathing involves inhaling deeply into your diaphragm, rather than shallowly into your chest. Here is a simple deep breathing exercise you can try:
Deep breathing exercises can be done at any time and can be particularly helpful during moments of stress or anxiety. Incorporating deep breathing exercises into your daily routine can also help to reduce overall stress levels and improve your overall well-being. 2. Exercise Regularly Regular exercise can release endorphins, also known as “feel good” hormones, which can improve your mood and reduce stress. When you exercise, your body also produces other chemicals, such as norepinephrine and cortisol, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, exercise can improve sleep, increase self-esteem, and provide a sense of accomplishment and control. It is recommended to get at least 30 minutes of moderate/intensity exercise most days of the week. However, even small amounts of physical activity can be beneficial. There are different types of exercises you can choose from:
It is important to find an activity that you enjoy and that fits into your lifestyle. Remember that consistency is key and making exercise a regular part of your routine can help to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. 3. Prioritize and Plan Tasks Prioritizing and planning tasks can help to reduce stress by allowing you to focus on what is most important and avoid feeling overwhelmed. When you have a lot to do, it can be easy to feel like you're constantly running behind, which can lead to increased stress levels. Here are a few tips for prioritizing and planning tasks:
Remember that perfectionism can be a source of stress and that it's okay to make mistakes or not be able to complete everything on your list. Prioritizing and planning tasks can help you to feel more in control of your time and reduce stress. 4. Set Boundaries Setting boundaries with your time and energy is an important aspect of managing stress. It means being mindful of what you can and cannot take on and being able to say "no" when you need to. This can help protect you from becoming overworked or overextended and can help you to prioritize your well-being. Here are a few tips for setting boundaries:
5. Practice Mindfulness Practicing mindfulness and meditation can be an effective way to reduce stress. Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and paying attention to your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Meditation is a technique that can help you achieve mindfulness by focusing your attention on a specific object, thought, or activity. There are many different types of meditation, including:
By practicing mindfulness and meditation regularly, you can improve your ability to manage stress and stay calm in difficult situations. 6. Learn to Say No Saying "no" can be difficult, especially when we are under stress. Stress can cause us to feel pressure to please others and avoid conflict, which can make it hard to assert ourselves and set boundaries. But, learning to say "no" in a respectful way can help reduce stress by allowing us to maintain control over our time and energy, and avoid taking on more than we can handle. When you are under stress, you may be more likely to feel guilty or apologetic when declining a request. However, it's important to remember that you have the right to make your own choices about how you spend your time and energy, and it's okay to prioritize your well-being. One way to practice saying "no" in a respectful way is to use "I" statements, which express your feelings and needs rather than placing blame on the other person. For example, instead of saying "You're always asking me to do things," you could say "I'm feeling overwhelmed right now and need to focus on my responsibilities." Another way to say "no" is to offer an alternative solution or to suggest a compromise. For example, instead of saying "I can't go to the meeting," you could say "I can't go to the meeting, but I can send you my notes or you can share the outcome with me afterward." It's also important to remember that saying "no" is not necessarily a final answer, it's a step in the negotiation process. So be open to finding a solution that works for both parties. In conclusion, this article provided six strategies to reduce stress during your renewal journey: 1) Practice deep breathing, 2) Exercise regularly, 3) Prioritize and plan tasks, 4) Set boundaries, 5) Practice Mindfulness and meditation, 6) Learn to say no. Build one of the strategies into your renewal process. For example, take one strategy per month and work at making it a new habit for you, or take one strategy where you feel you are most vulnerable and build an action plan to incorporate it into your life. As always, take care, be safe, and continue becoming the best version of yourself. Thank you for reading, Richard Richard Fontanie Resources from the FM Storefront Stressology, Stress Care For Today Remedies For Home office Business Stress Stop Stressing Yourself  If you are on a path toward self-improvement or on a journey to find yourself, then you have likely come across an unending stream of buzzwords. You may have chased many of them down rabbit trails and became lost in the forest.
Buzzwords are not necessarily bad. They are often used in office environments as shorthand for complex concepts. They break down those concepts into a simple word or phrase that is easily understood. Using buzzwords can help you engage with coworkers, customers, and colleagues in line with the norms and expectations of your organization. Here are a few common business buzzwords we use in conversations and writings: “return on investment,” “deep dive,” “impact,” “sustainability,” “logistics,” “ballpark,” and “content is king”. Self-renewal, self-awareness, and introspection, however, are not buzzwords. They are interconnected. They are bridges among each other. When you understand what each of them means individually, it's easy to understand why that is. Introspection is assessing your behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. It's something you apply to the thoughts you are currently having. Introspection can help you bring about necessary changes in how you behave, think, and move through the world. In psychology, it's a formalized approach, but in practice, it's something you can do anywhere if you do it mindfully. A way to use introspection is to consciously reflect on your internal psychological processes. When you reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and memories and examine their meaning you are engaged in introspection. In this way, introspection helps improve your levels of self-awareness which then will help you improve your resilience and lower stress levels. Since its introduction to the psychology world, introspection has evolved to tie into self-realization. This process helps you modify your behaviors. It draws a line around and between all of the connections between emotions and behaviors that may not be serving you. Some ways to improve the way you conduct an introspection could be: 1. Self-Monitoring. This involves simply noticing what is going on within yourself using mindful meditation, where you observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment. You simply let them pass through your mind like floating clouds. If you want to stop along the way and meditate on one of the thoughts you begin to gain insight into yourself. Here you are observing, learning, and gaining insights about the way you act and behave. 2. Asking Yourself Open-Ended Questions. Open-ended questions can help you better understand your attitudes, beliefs, desires, evaluations, intentions, emotions, and sensory experiences. Ask open-ended questions like,
3. Taking stock of your strengths and weaknesses. Much of this exercise is looking at your skill sets, how you learn, and your intellectual self. However, don’t forget your emotions in the process, for instance, if upon reflection you notice you get anxious before giving a presentation you might consider this not to be healthy and let your anxiety be heightened. Your anxiety begins to overtake you and in the process, you falter giving all kinds of messages that things are just not right. This becomes an emotional weakness for you and you need to address it in a healthier way. Self-awareness hypothesizes that people either focus on their internal or external environment at a given moment. If you're staring at yourself in the mirror, you are more likely to be aware of what is directly in front of you. It can fall into two different categories. The first is analyzing your experiences and behaviors to understand the world around you. The second is the same level of analysis but putting it in a third-person perspective by comparing yourself to societal standards. In either category, you are changing your behavior based on a set of standards. You can strengthen self-awareness by engaging in the following five activities: 1. Walking in the quiet of nature. Nature not only has a rejuvenating effect on you, but also nudges you to examine something that is happening in your life whether it be something to do with your work, relationships, or family. 2. Practicing mindfulness. Here you are consciously directing your thoughts inward to become more aware of what is happening with your thoughts and beliefs as they trigger your emotions. Mindfulness includes focusing your attention on whatever it is you are doing and involves the practice of meditation or the quieting of the mind. 3. Listening deeply to others. When we focus on another person it is a way to downgrade our self-destructive thinking. Dr. Tchiki Davis points out, “By being open to someone else, we can learn to listen objectively, even lovingly, to what that person wants or needs to share. This, in turn, helps each of us how to listen to our own inner dialogues and opinions objectively and lovingly as well.” 4. Journaling is an excellent way to become greater self-aware. I have often commented on the advantages of journaling as a method of becoming more self-aware. With journaling you are telling your story in your own words and they can reveal what’s critical for you. You can find more about journaling here. 5. Obtaining feedback from others. Finding an objective listener, one who can give you constructive criticism and help you grow as a person is another way of strengthening your self-awareness. Here you need to be open to what people are saying to you and then make a mental note to examine it later. When you reflect on what the other person has said you may find the criticism to be inaccurate and more about a projection of the other person’s struggles. In that case, don’t respond defensively but try to get to the underlying issue so that you can keep a healthy relationship. Self-renewal is the act of rebirth. It is a change in priorities, an opportunity to renew and regroup. It's something you have to do mindfully as often as possible. You are constantly changing as a person and with every change in who you are, there are changes in what you want, need, and desire. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus tells the story about not putting new wine in old wineskins because both the wine and wineskins will be ruined. In many ways, this is a renewal story. It is difficult to renew ourselves unless we shed the old skin, so to speak, and put on new skin. And, as we do we go deeper within ourselves (introspection) we begin to find our true selves (become more aware). Self-renewal is the act of keeping up with the changes that take place as we put on new skin. To solidify this here are 5 concrete things you can do to put on new skin. 1. Clarify your gifts. Focus on your natural gifts and break out from the dam you have of holding them back. 2. Sharpen your learning. Pay attention to learning at a deeper level, but don’t forget to spend time learning just for fun. One of my mentors found that taking a camera course was just what he needed to sharpen his awareness on his walks. Another spends time in a sports activity just for fun and companionship. 3. Focus on spending time with just you. Take some time out to rejuvenate in nature and be in the moment with it. While there say a silent prayer of thanksgiving. You don’t have to be religious to do this. Just revel and be thankful for what is in front of you. 4. Take a personal retreat. A retreat allows you to unplug from your daily grind and connect with like-minded people. Make this an annual practice. 5. Become a volunteer or a mentor. Community organizations are always looking for positive and impactful people. Find one that fits your values and beliefs. Mentor youth or someone who can benefit from your experience and wisdom. Search for mentoring groups within your community or place of work. The Connection. Introspection feeds self-awareness, and then the two combined join forces to trigger self-renewal. None of them work individually, and if you try to focus on one without addressing the others, you won't reach the state of joy or fulfillment you are looking for. As you begin the journey, you need to focus on each of these individually, but you have to do so by taking little steps and limiting yourself to just three things. So, if you plan to focus on introspection, self-awareness, and renewal, you should choose one action point under each category I mentioned above. Just be sure to choose an action for each that feeds into the others. For example, if you are struggling with a bad habit like over-eating, smoking, or even getting lost in content, then undergoing a period of introspection will help you uncover everything you can about that bad habit thus bringing about a state of self-awareness. Knowing is half the battle so, once you have the awareness of the issue and an idea of the root causes, you can take the steps to address those issues and renew yourself by adopting a new, healthier means of coping. If you are struggling and want help along your journey, you may want to seek out the advice of a professional, coach, or mentor. For instance, if you are dealing with a substance abuse issue, then several resources can help you such as Alcohol Anonymous, a social worker, a true friend who has your interest at heart, or a psychologist. These resources will be able to support you as you address the underlying symptoms and coping mechanisms to navigate the healing process. As always stay safe, keep healthy, and continue becoming the best version of yourself. Thank you for reading, Richard, Richard Fontanie Sources: Jennifer Herrity, 30 Common Business Buzzwords, and Their Definitions. Kendra Cherry, What is Introspection? Dr. Tchiki Davis, Ph.D. What Is Self-Awareness, and How Do You Get it, Dr. Abogao Bremmer, M.D. 5 Ways to Regroup, Reprioritize, and Renew Yourself”  One of the most important, yet lesser discussed, qualities a human can possess is the power of self-renewal. And, one of the most common qualities people talk about when it comes to self-renewal is resilience. Resilience is the ability to bounce back after being faced with adversity. A must for those who want to grow and develop. Self-renewal might be defined a little differently, but it is part of being able to bounce back. Whether you work in a demanding job or you have been chasing a long-term goal like starting a business, it's easy to lose heart. How do you keep motivated when you're waiting for a breakthrough and it just doesn't seem to happen? Sometimes, praise from others or encouragement can push you on. But that's something you have to rely on others to give you. That’s outside of yourself. So, how do you stay afloat when everything feels so hard? Let’s take a peek behind the door and begin to solve the mystery of self-renewal. Self-renewal. People who accomplish the tough stuff and push to achieve great things all possess the power of self-renewal. And, here you come head to head with grit and the ability to keep going. Grit is a combination of passion and perseverance for a long-term goal. It is the willingness to work hard and sustain effort over time to achieve a certain objective, despite facing obstacles and setbacks. Grit is often considered to be a key factor in achieving success, particularly in challenging or competitive fields. People with grit can overcome obstacles and achieve goals while at the same time maintaining motivation and keeping focus over the long term. People with grit can stay motivated and optimistic, even when faced with adversity. When working on something big, challenging, and long-term, it's an important skill. Grit is the skill that strengthens your momentum to continue moving forward. Self-renewal Has A Deeper Meaning. But self-renewal has a deeper meaning than just grit and resilience. When working toward something bigger than yourself, you can rely on self-renewal to remind you of your goal, vision, and values. It will always be there to remind you how much you care. It's an offshoot of your inspiration. And where does your inspiration come from? Inspiration is related to the spirit within you. It’s being in tune with your true self… with your soul so to speak. Its role with self-renewal can give you the motivation and drive to make positive changes, seek new opportunities, and discover your passion and purpose. In this way, both self-renewal and inspiration mutually reinforce each other and lead to personal growth and development. Your grit and resilience keep pushing you on, but inspiration keeps you honest with yourself in the process. So these three attributes, grit, resilience, and inspiration keep you going forward as you journey towards self-renewal. Now, taken on its own, self-renewal is all about re-aligning yourself with your purpose and goals. As you re-align yourself with your purpose and goals four things you can do, if they relate to you, is remove negativity, practice gratitude, remove emotional and mental clutter, and let go of the past. 1. Remove Negativity. Holding onto negativity refers to the tendency to dwell on negative thoughts, emotions, and experiences, rather than letting them go and moving on. When people hold onto negativity, they may ruminate on negative events, replaying them in their minds and dwelling on the negative emotions they associate with them. This can lead to a negative cycle of thoughts and emotions that can be difficult to break out of. Holding onto negativity can have several adverse consequences for one's mental and physical well-being. It can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and stress. It can also impact one's relationships, work, and general quality of life. Thereby hurting social interactions, productivity, creativity, and physical health. You can let go of negativity using such approaches as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and talk therapy. These can help you reframe your thoughts, challenge negative thought patterns and develop a more positive outlook on life. 2. Practice Gratitude. You can practice gratitude to help push those negative thoughts and feelings away. Practicing gratitude involves focusing on the positive aspects of one's life and expressing appreciation for the good things that one has, rather than dwelling on negative thoughts and experiences. It can be a powerful tool for taking away negative thoughts and emotions. When you practice gratitude, you shift your focus away from what you lack or what's going wrong in your life, and instead, you focus on the things that are going well. This can help to change your perspective and put things in a more positive light. It can help you to appreciate the good things in your life that you may have been taking for granted. Gratitude can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, by increasing feelings of positivity, happiness, and well-being. It has been shown to improve sleep quality, increase energy and improve overall physical and psychological health. Research has demonstrated that individuals who practice gratitude regularly are more optimistic, have higher self-esteem, and have stronger immune systems. There are several ways to practice gratitude, including:
Gratitude practice then is a simple yet effective tool to improve overall well-being, by increasing positive thoughts and emotions and reducing negative ones. 3. Remove Emotional and Mental Clutter. Removing emotional and mental clutter refers to the process of letting go of negative thoughts, emotions, and experiences that may be cluttering your mind and preventing you from living in a more peaceful and fulfilling way. Here are a few strategies that can help you remove emotional and mental clutter:
4. Let Go Of The Past And Make Room For Newness. Perhaps the hardest step in the self-renewal process is the forgiveness step. It isn't necessarily about forgiving others, it's more about forgiving yourself. Have you forgiven yourself for the errors you have blamed yourself for? We are often harsher on ourselves than we are on others. So, don't skip the self-forgiveness stage. And though you might have others to forgive, it's important to know that it's less about letting people off the hook for harming you and more about processing the harm and hurt you have held onto as a result. Also, consider how much of your effort and attention is on chasing rabbit trails instead of focusing on your actual goals. Misplaced priorities are major enemies of self-renewal. Set your direction for progress and prepare yourself for some uncertain terrain. Even if things feel difficult, try to reframe your attitude and think positively. It's time to make the decisions you have been avoiding and you need to be in the right mindset to do that. Set your renewal goals and start small – try to focus on one thing at a time. Start banishing excuses from your vocabulary and start accepting that where you are, wherever that might be, is your starting point. Whatever happens, you can always start fresh. Call to Action: Everything in this post has a deep spiritual connotation as it goes to the core of who you are, your deeper and truer self, and why you exist. It relates to all the dimensions of your life and how you develop and maintain your whole self. To that end, I recommend that you join FORTIS which provides resources for you to keep going through good and difficult times. Thank you for reading, and remember to continue becoming the best version of yourself. Richard Richard Fontanie Other helpful resources from the FM Storefront: The Beginners Guide To Self-Discipline Stressology: Stress Care For Today |
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