Know Thyself

Know Thyself – Reflection by Journaling by Diane Mitchell-Miller

Socrates believed the first step to true wisdom is to “know thyself” because only then can one appreciate what one understands and what remains to be learned. When we ask questions of ourselves we grow spiritually.

“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” Aristotle

Jesus was always asking questions. “Why are you so afraid?” “Why do you call me good?” “Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?” “Where is your faith?” By one estimate Jesus asked as many as 307 questions in the Gospels, a lot more questions than answers.

Why? Perhaps it’s because when we ask ourselves questions, we grow – we transform and get to the heart of the matter. We own the answers. We search our souls.

Jesus asked:

“Do you love me?” (John 21:17)
Jesus asked Peter this question three times, and each time when the answer was yes, the response was “Feed my sheep.” Talk is cheap. Action is everything. What do you do to show your love? 

“What do you want me to do for you?” (Matthew 20:32)
Two blind men were among a large crowd following Jesus, begging for mercy. Jesus doesn’t heal them until they say exactly what they want. He knew what they wanted he was Jesus – he wanted them to be clear and able to clearly articulate what they really wanted.

Thinking in writing has this magical quality of clarifying your thoughts. Write down your answers in a journal using pen and paper. The physical act of handwriting draws left-right brain connections that increase neural pathways and activity – similar to meditation and mindfulness. Mindful writing forces you to slow down and BE in the moment – this rests and quiets your brain. This rest cultivates creativity and new thought.

“The practice of writing can enhance the brain’s intake, processing, retaining, and retrieving of information… it promotes the brain’s attentive focus … boosts long-term memory, illuminates patterns, gives the brain time for reflection, and when well-guided, is a source of conceptual development and stimulus of the brain’s highest cognition.” -Nuerologist Judy Willis

At the end of the day, take a few minutes to reflect on your day and write down your thoughts. Using a journal template like this can help you stay focused on your goals, cultivate gratitude, and stay accountable in your practices. Make sure to review your progress regularly and adjust your goals and practices as needed to ensure that you’re on track to achieve your desired outcomes. Write your dreams to “program” your subconscious to get to work on turning them into reality.

The best and easiest form of journaling is the one that works for you and fits your personal preferences and lifestyle. There are many different forms of journaling, and what works for one person may not work for another. Here are a few suggestions for easy and effective forms of journaling:

1. Free Writing: Set a timer for 5-10 minutes and write down whatever comes to mind, without worrying about spelling, grammar, or punctuation. The goal is to write continuously without stopping, editing, or censoring yourself.
2. Bullet Journaling: This is a structured form of journaling that involves creating lists, charts, and symbols to track habits, goals, and tasks. It can be an effective way to stay organized and focused while also expressing creativity.
3. Gratitude Journaling: Write down 3-5 things you are grateful for each day. This can help cultivate a positive mindset and focus on the good things in your life.
4. Art Journaling: Use drawing, painting, collage, or other art forms to express your thoughts and emotions. This can be a creative and therapeutic way to process your feelings.

Remember, the key to successful journaling is to find a form that you enjoy and that you will stick to over time. Try out different forms of journaling until you find one that works for you.

This is my journal routine:

• Think through GiG² – What am I grateful for today, how was I intentional, what did I let go of -did I really let go? And how did I give.
• Did I live purposefully today?
• What could I have done better?
• What did I learn today?

The Ten Questions that can lead to Ah-Ha moments and who doesn’t want that:

1. Write five pieces of wisdom for your children, to help them live an extraordinary life. (Write this to a nephew/niece or your 10-year-old self if you don’t have kids.)
2. Write five things that keep you up at night?
3. What are your five great accomplishments in life? Be specific rather than generic. (This is not bragging – this is you sharing your greatest strengths.)
4. Write a story about the most influential leader or coach you have ever encountered. What made this person such an effective leader? Now, write about how YOU embody these same characteristics.
5. Who is your hero? Why? What do you embody in this person?
6. What do you want to be remembered for? (Eulogy virtues vs. resume virtues.)
7. Write about a fear or limiting belief that has held you back. Explore the origins of this fear and challenge yourself to overcome it.
8. How can I serve others? Shifting your focus from self-centeredness to serving others can lead to profound breakthroughs. By finding ways to contribute to the well-being and success of others, you can discover purpose, fulfillment, and new perspectives
9. Describe a moment when you felt truly alive and connected to the world around you. What were the circumstances, and what made that experience so impactful
10. Am I living authentically? Seriously?Reflect on whether you are living in alignment with your true self and values. Exploring your authenticity and making choices that align with your genuine desires and aspirations can lead to breakthroughs in personal fulfillment and happiness.

These questions serve as starting points for self-reflection and can help unlock insights, inspiration, and breakthroughs. Embrace them with an open mind and allow them to guide you on your journey of personal growth and transformation.