It can only be you, would you rather it be someone else?

Do you have that constant battle of not being enough?

Hold up! This isn't your typical self help reads where you have to follow someone else's rules to become a 'perfect version' of you.

But why don't you just read on and unravel it.

I would have you know that there's a thin line between knowing who you are and accepting your true self. Against the societal norms and expectations that poses as a standard for being one's 'authentic' self.

Breaking off from this set 'standard' is a process known as "self discovery", which can be both enlightening and challenging. This is a process where one confronts ingrained beliefs and conditions that may hinder their authenticity.

The art of going through this process of self discovery could be termed 'Self awareness'.

Authenticity lies in the heart of self-actualization. It entails living in alignment with one's true values,passion, innermost desires and purpose, regardless of external expectations and pressure.

Ask yourself questions like;

*Who really am I when it's just me in my comfort zone?

*What would I rather do or become if I am given a second chance to make a choice in a same situation, that would bring peace and true happiness to my table than the validation of people?

*What dream do I pursue?

Scary as it seems, but authenticity requires vulnerability. One must have the courage to express himself honestly even in the face of criticism and rejection. The journey towards self-actualization is not without challenges,I must forewarn you. Society often imposes narrow definitions of what success and happiness should look like, leading individuals to pursue external validation or material wealth at the expense of their authenticity.

The unnecessary pressure to conform to societal norms can be intense, causing Individuals to suppress their true selves for favour of fitting in or meeting others' expectations.

Self-love and actualization are two interconnected concepts that form the foundation of a fulfilling and purpose-driven life. Self-love refers to the practice of accepting and embracing oneself, flaws and all, while self-actualization is the process of realizing one's full potential and living an authentic life. In this article, we will explore how factors in different phases of a person's life influence their self-development and why being in a conscious state of self-awareness and identity is crucial for growth and happiness.

*Childhood and Adolescence

The early years of life play a significant role in shaping our self-perception and self-worth. Parental influences, societal expectations, and peer pressure can either nurture or hinder our self-love and actualization. A supportive and loving environment can help children develop a positive self-image, while criticism and negativity can lead to self-doubt and low self-esteem. During adolescence, the need for acceptance and belonging can lead to conformity, suppressing individuality and authenticity.

*Adulthood

As we enter adulthood, we face new challenges and responsibilities that can either empower or stifle our self-love and actualization. Career pressures, relationships, and societal expectations can lead to a loss of identity and purpose. Self-awareness and self-reflection become essential tools for rediscovering our passions and values. Midlife crises and major life transitions can also prompt a re-evaluation of our priorities and goals, leading to a renewed focus on self-love and actualization.

Factors Influencing Self-Development

- Family and upbringing

- Education and societal expectations

- Peer pressure and social media

- Trauma and adversity

- Cultural and religious background

- Personal relationships and support networks

Importance of Self-Awareness and Identity

Self-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It allows us to:

- Identify limiting beliefs and patterns

- Develop emotional intelligence and resilience

- Set boundaries and prioritize self-care

- Cultivate gratitude and self-acceptance

- Embrace our uniqueness and individuality

Conscious State of Self-Awareness and Identity

Being in a conscious state of self-awareness and identity requires:

- Mindfulness and self-reflection

- Openness to feedback and growth

- Willingness to confront and challenge limiting beliefs

- Embracing imperfections and vulnerabilities

- Practicing self-compassion and self-love

Self-love and actualization are lifelong journeys that require conscious effort and dedication. By understanding the factors that influence our self-development and cultivating self-awareness and identity, we can unlock our full potential and live a life that is authentic, purposeful, and fulfilling. Remember, self-love is not selfish; it is essential for living a happy, healthy, and meaningful life.