Inside-Out

Over the years, I've written extensively on the subject of introspection and how, by taking a look at ourselves from the inside, we can begin to better understand what drives us, why we do certain things, and why we react the way we do under varying circumstances. 

In my writings, I have described some of the ways in which we can "go there" and explore our inner selves and reach a point where true introspection occurs.  I hope you've been able to experience the intimacy of gaining that perspective and getting to know yourself better by using some of the methods I've covered.  If you've missed those articles, I encourage you to peruse the archives to see what resonates with you. There's lots of great content available! 

Today, I'd like for us to consider an alternative method to gain a different perspective of ourselves - one that's often overlooked and unrecognized.  That perspective comes to us by way of other people and how they see us. 

The value of how others see you can sometimes be a tough pill to swallow.  Think "personal judgment". Yikes! It is especially tough to discover we're not as perfect as we may believe we are. Let's face it, our own self-acknowledged shortcomings are difficult enough to accept and expose our vulnerabilities to some extent.  Nonetheless, the outside perspective has value and merit as a source of insight into the various aspects of our persona when the ultimate goal is to gain complete introspection. 

In many businesses, the personnel system requires the supervisor and subordinate to meet in private to discuss the performance evaluation of the subordinate worker.  It can be an uncomfortable process for either party.  If conducted properly, however, the feedback process offers an external perspective on how the recipient is viewed by others.  Still, it can be tough to hear that, in spite of all the praises and accolades, there exists inevitable room for improvement. Everything discussed has the potential to play a role in helping to provide a useful perspective, which leads to introspect, and ultimately, to personal improvement and development.

No matter how hard we may try, seeing ourselves from an outside perspective provides an incomplete picture if we attempt to conduct the process alone.  We are said to have a "Johari Window", or a perspective that simply and effectively hides or disguises the truth about some part of our external selves, from our personal viewpoint or knowledge.  One of the four Johari Windows is that area known (and seen) by others but hidden from our own field of view.  It's this window that, if openly accepted for what it offers, can play a role in providing a more complete perspective of who we are as individuals. 

The ultimate goal of introspection is to improve the synergy and quality of our lives by getting to know ourselves on a deeper level. Consider taking an honest look at how you are perceived by others.  Ask a trusted friend to be honest with you about how you're viewed in varying situations and circumstances.  As uncomfortable as this may seem at first, it is one of the best methods to acquire a complete picture of your true self. Accept all of the feedback humbly (the good and the not-so-good) and be honest with yourself.  After all, just about anything can be changed, altered, or improved. 

Here's to an open window leading to a fresh new perspective and your personal growth. 
Take a deep breath!


Until next time...

- G -

"Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom."

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