My interpretation on one of the 20 guiding precepts of Shotokan Karate-Do.
I believe self-awareness is the first step in finding yourself, and then being able to influence others in a positive way.
When I was able to recognise and admit that I had some problems in various aspects of my life, it became the starting point that lead to improvement and self-discovery.
I have faced much adversity throughout my life. When I began looking inside myself to better understand my own needs, desires, failings, habits, and emotions, I was able to more objectively understand why I did the things I did. The more self- awareness I had , the better I was able to empathise and understand others.
I know from experience that discovering oneself completely can be time consuming and difficult, and at times can seem impossible to solve! But just because we find it difficult doesn't mean we shouldn't try. I know and accept that I can't solve every problem in my life, but I can make some headway on minor changes.
I also realise that self-awareness is an ongoing process - as people develop and the world around us changes, I will have to keep re-analysing myself in order to adapt.
Knowing yourself will help you overcome your own road blocks and succeed as an individual.
James Singh Sensei.
