Happy Thanksgiving 

Know Thyself

Thales of Miletus is often attributed with saying, “Know thyself”, which emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and introspection. 

When we look at ancient history, this phrase was, in fact, inscribed on the Temple of Apollo at Delphi. Aristotle, like many philosophers, psychologists, and therapists, believed that self-awareness leads to human flourishing, and Plato thought that self-awareness allows an individual to understand their relationship with the eternal realm, and attain wisdom and spiritual growth. 

In recovery programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, this is a highly important concept for people. This allows people the ability to develop skills to help them grow in understanding themselves, their motivations, and their behaviors. 

For me, when I think about self-awareness, I think about being aware of my behaviors, my thoughts, my beliefs, and my attitudes. Plato mentioned about the relationship with the eternal, and I think this is crucial. I know we are not here forever, and I think it’s important to learn what we can and to leave this world in a better place than where we found it. I think it is equally important that for me to practice self-awareness, I also have to have feedback and suggestions from the people in my corner that help me to practice self-awareness, and help me to continue growing and flourishing, as Socrates believed. 

What does self-awareness mean for you? How do you practice it? 

Peace & love to all 

~ KO