Call SOS! Awareness is Not Isolation
Self-awareness is a lifeline. Without it, we're swayed by external pressures, missing the unique beauty of our own existence. Without it, we're drifters, continually tugged by life's ebb and flow, and by others' expectations. I often find myself choked up with tearful gratitude when I think of the journey I've traveled, from seeking validation externally to finally loving who I am, despite past rejections.
I've had my fair share of pitfalls. One of the most crippling has been self-imposed isolation. The fear of criticism—both constructive and not—led me to shutting myself off from the world, convincing my heart, "It's just me and God. Their opinions don’t matter." But deep down? I cared. Deeply.
The myth I, and many of us, bought into? That profound introspection equates to prolonged solitude. Think of figures like Buddha or Thoreau, and the idea seems justified, on the other hand, Jesus lived a perfect balance of self-isolation and community. I've come to realize there's a world of difference between purposeful moments of solitude and continual self-isolation.
Reflecting on my journey, here's what isolation cost me:
- Limited Perspectives: My vision, both literal and metaphorical, was limited. My faith gave me solace, but I also learned that insights from others expanded my horizons in ways I never thought possible on my own.
- Social Skills Erosion: Masking my retreat as a quest for enlightenment, I forgot one truth: we weren’t designed to be one-woman tribes. My communication suffered, and my world started feeling one-dimensional.
- Emotional Isolation: A byproduct of my retreat was a looming shadow of loneliness, diminishing my reasons to truly enjoy life.
- Feedback Void: My blind spots, especially those that concerned my inner self, remained unseen. Without external perspectives, they began to dominate my self-perception. I couldn’t know everything! As much as my ego wanted to.
This realization changed my trajectory. We need a tribe—a blend of family, friends, mentors, therapists, teachers, and coaches. It's risky. Vulnerability always is. I've been there, fearing imminent rejection, finding solace on my "isolated island". But trust me, the real beauty lies in bridging that gap.
As you tread this path, I encourage you to:
- Schedule Social Time: Intentionally make time for loved ones.
- Engage in Groups: Find joy and insight in shared experiences, without the burden of getting too intimate.
- Seek Professional Guidance: As a coach myself, I know the value. My own therapist, coach, and mentors have been pivotal.
Isolation for Awareness? Yes, it’s a powerful tool in moderation. Remember: This should be a tool in your toolbox not a staple in your lifestyle.
