What does being honest mean for you?
It takes great courage to live truthfully in alignment with our intrinsic values and beliefs. We are often influenced by other people’s opinions and jump quickly into comparison which robs us of our true nature. When we find the strength and conviction to stand in our personal truth, we create an opportunity to choose to learn about how we affect the world we live in.
Being truthful to ourselves and others requires us to develop characteristics of honesty and integrity. These qualities are not just about our words. They are attributes that come into fruition when our thoughts, words, and actions are congruent with what we feel, say, and do.
When we communicate our reality in a way that is authentic, we align our energy. Comparatively, if we say one thing and our demeanor and actions are going in another direction – our energy becomes dispersed. This can be tiring. If you speak from your heart with good intention, its more likely others will understand your viewpoint. Honesty and integrity are key components of self-care. They help us develop ways to conserve our energy and direct it in a more positive way.
This month’s Self-Care Project
Focus on your communication patterns and habits – watch to see if your words and actions align with each other
Try keeping a journal and notice how consistent your communication is with how you are actually feeling. Look to see if you notice patterns of when it is more challenging to be fully honest – either with yourself or others.
Remember always start simple and small – this is about self-care – not about causing a volcanic eruption!
Things to observe:
- How easy is it for you to articulate your feelings?
- How often do you say something to other people that is different from how you actually feel?
- Do you mislead someone because you’re concerned about what they might think?
- How truthful to yourself do you think you are?
- In what situations do you find it difficult to tell the truth?
This concept may be totally new for you. We all need time and space to figure out how we operate. Remember to always check in with people who are close to you so that they can support you along the way.
Self-care is about having the courage to be true to yourself. This inquiry is a life time practice, there’s no time frame. We just need to be willing to take notice and respond accordingly to what’s really happening in our lives.
