As you grow older, you start to question who you are as a person, and what your purpose in life is. I remember my final year in high school, how scared and excited I was. 96% of my classmates knew exactly what college they were going, what they were going to study, what year they would graduate, who they were going to marry and how many kids they wanted. On the other hand, I was part of the 4% who didn’t even know what the plan for college was.
It is very important that you start to find yourself from a young age. Find out what your interests are, what gets you excited, what you are good at, what would you rather not do, and what career you see yourself in years from now. Picture the future, and start to plan towards it.
Self discovery can be tough sometimes. Some people might have it easier while others might struggle a little bit. I know i was on the struggle bus when it came to getting to know myself. There will be confusion, fear of the unknown, doubt, e.t.c but it’s okay. You have to push through it because it doesn’t end there.
I know you might be thinking is it possible to not know oneself? Well, the answer is yes. Here are some few pointers to discovering yourself.
1. Meditate: Look back at your surroundings growing up, what values you grew up with, what are your beliefs, etc.
2. Question yourself: ask questions like who am i? What do i like? What makes me happy? What am I passionate about?, etc. It might sound silly, but don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.
3. Ask questions: Sometimes we might not see things that other people see in us. Its okay to as questions from people you trust. Which is why, you also need to surround yourself with people who let you grow. Don’t feel bad cutting negative people out. You know a person supports your growth when they push you to do things you didn’t know you could do.
4. Journal: Writing things down, is a good way to reflect and keep track of things going on in your life.
5. Self-care: Lastly, don’t forget to take care of you. Travel, read a book, visit the spa whatever relaxes you remember to do often.
Self discovery is not a day’s job, it is a process. One which you have to trust. If you are currently in the process, or still struggling to find you, don’t feel bad because you will. Even as you grow and think you know all there is to know, you still get to discover something new about you in different phases of your life.
“There is no greater journey than the one you must take to discover all the mysteries that lie within you.” – Michelle Sandlin
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Anastacia Ago is a Respiratory Therapist, writer and an amazing singer. She believes in equipping the youth to take on the future with confidence. You can reach her at [email protected].