Self-development is a very complex multicomponent category. However, the concept of development is always the same: determining the current and desired state of affairs. If you make the wrong choice, you can waste a lot of time and energy chasing imaginary desires. That is why self-knowledge is a key link in self-development.
The importance of self-knowledge is described in one simple story. The man learned that his happiness is at the top of a large skyscraper, which can only be climbed by an ordinary street staircase. He walked towards his goal day and night, without being distracted by laziness and other irritants. And so, when the last step was passed, he was on the roof. His surprise knew no bounds: there he was waiting for the happiness of another person.
The meaning of this story is that no matter how hard a person tries to achieve what he wants, he first needs to put a ladder to the right house. Just as it is impossible to find the desired house in Moscow using the map of St. Petersburg, so it is impossible to find your own happiness and success by following other people's dreams and desires.
How to understand what you want
There are many techniques that help a person to become aware of himself in one way or another. Of course, most of them are not perfect: they only help to understand the main part, so to speak, the surface. In order to gain a deeper understanding of the significance of certain phenomena, certain events must occur.
However, the techniques are still useful because they allow you to determine the main vector of motion. The simplest one is the usual brainstorming session. Take a piece of paper and define a topic for reflection. For example, what is important to you in a relationship. Find a secluded spot, turn on your favorite music, and start writing. Write whatever comes to your mind.
It is best to use abstracts. For example, I want my man to help me around the house, or I want my wife to give me homemade gifts. Don't be distracted in any way. It's best to even turn off your phone. It is better to spend at least an hour on this technique in order to thoroughly think over all aspects.
After a while (1-3 days) take your sheet and re-read what you have written. Cross out what is no longer relevant, add something new and highlight the theses that you think are the most important.
Meditations
Another way to become more aware of yourself is through meditation. This is not about esoteric practices, but about ordinary techniques. Meditations allow you to immerse yourself in your thoughts, carefully analyze any issue, and also find peace of mind.
The simplest meditation technique for self-knowledge is as follows. Find a quiet place, sit in a comfortable position with your back straight, and close your eyes. Concentrating on your breath, take a few deep breaths. When you feel completely relaxed, begin to ponder the necessary question.
The main thing here is not to be distracted by extraneous thoughts. Dive completely into the problem area. Understand which path is truly important to you. This technique can be used to be aware of all areas of life. Try to meditate every day and then self-knowledge will be truly easy and light for you.