A path to yourself: how to start a journey of self-realization

Self-realization is more than just achieving goals or attaining professional success. It is about unlocking your full potential, embracing your strengths, and finding harmony within yourself and your aspirations. For many of us, this journey begins with a simple yet profound question: "What does my dream life look like?" Dreams push us toward new achievements and help us understand what we truly want and how we envision the world around us.

But how do we turn dreams into reality? Where do we start? The ELLE O’zbekiston team has put together practical steps to help you take the first steps toward self-realization. 

Defining core values 

To set meaningful goals for self-realization, it’s essential to understand what truly matters to you. This step requires honesty with yourself, as your entire journey will be shaped by these priorities.

If you’re unsure what your core values are, a simple exercise can help. This technique, detailed by famous psychotherapist Jason Luoma, allows people to gain deeper self-awareness.

Imagine you are over 90 years old, having lived a long, fulfilling life. A famous journalist comes to interview you. What stories would you want to share? What moments brought you the most joy? When did you feel truly proud of yourself? How would your life need to look for you to feel satisfied as you reflect on it? Write down your honest answers, and then identify common themes in your reflections. These will reveal your most important values.

Photо: Pinterest

Recognizing your strengths 

Now that you have identified what truly matters to you, it is essential to understand the resources you already possess to achieve self-realization. Your close ones can help with this – ask them what qualities they admire most in you and what they consider unique and distinctive about your personality. Reflect on what you might be lacking for successful self-realization, whether it is knowledge or specific skills, depending on the field in which you want to grow. At this stage, it is important to recognize what you already have to pursue your goals and what areas need further development.

Creating an action plan 

Dreaming is inspiring, but when it comes to action, goals can sometimes feel overwhelming or even unattainable. To overcome self-doubt, break down your goals into small, achievable steps:

• If you want to start your own business, begin by researching successful entrepreneurs in your field.
• If you dream of a creative career, enroll in a workshop or experiment with creating something on your own.

This approach works in all areas of life, not just professional growth. Self-realization can happen in relationships, family, and community involvement. You are free to explore multiple paths to create a life that aligns with your dreams.

Photо: Pinterest

Building healthy habits 

One of the biggest obstacles to self-realization is fear of failure. But remember, every mistake is an opportunity for growth.

You’ve probably heard the 21-day habit rule, which claims that habits are formed in three weeks. While that isn’t entirely accurate, there is some truth to it – consistency is key.

Try committing six months to working on your goal every day, even for a short time. For example: If your goal is art, schedule 30 minutes of drawing every day. The key is to do it for yourself. Over time, self-doubt will fade, and your confidence will grow with each step forward.

Celebrating small achievements

Self-realization is not just about the outcome – it’s about the process itself. Learn to recognize and celebrate even your smallest achievements and find joy in every little success along the way.