Self-reflection gives you the time to sit back and assess yourself. You can do this at any point, however it is very useful in the face of stressful situations and how you react to them. Self-reflection can help you with personal development goals as well. Below are three main benefits that come from self-reflection.

Gather a greater understanding of your role in the world.

When you reflect on yourself, you are able to see how you interact in different situations that life presents to you. It is easier to observe your relationship with other people, with work, and with yourself when you take the time to assess your actions and thoughts.

Arm yourself with the tools to recognize negative thought patterns and behaviors.

We live in a world where people are exposed to constant stimulation, and often lack the time or skills to sit down and self-reflect. Keeping a journal can provide you with stress relief and a source of self-reflection – you are able to go back at any time and see your thoughts on a specific instance. Recognizing negative or unproductive feelings and reactions can help you change your behaviors in the future.

Learn your core values.

Keeping mental track of how you feel at certain points in your life can help illuminate your core values. Self reflection gives you insight into your strengths, hopes and dreams, and the types of values you have through constant review of your feelings and actions. You are able to more authoritatively decide what matters to you in life, and what things are wasting your time and causing unhappiness.

Methods of Self-Reflection

There are many methods of self-reflection, and since it is a very personal action, it is important that you customize your self-reflection routine to what works for you. Here are some common methods:

• Keeping a Journal Write down your daily thoughts, or emotions and make sure to keep extra details when there is an important event in your life.

• Talking to a Friend Journaling may not be enough – it can be beneficial to bounce thoughts and ideas off a trusted friend or a therapist These people can give you insight that you might not have thought of yourself.

• Meditation Meditation can provide an alternative source of self-reflection outside of a traditional method. This time can be spent quieting the mind in a way that allows positive thoughts to flow.

There are also arguments to be made that self-reflection can help outside of your personal life as well, for instance it can help you be a better leader in the workplace. Wherever you wish to improve your life, start with some self-reflection and see where it can take you.