Self-Reflection Without Self-Judgment: A Guide to Daily Mental Check-Ins
Self-Reflection Without Self-Judgment: A Guide to Daily Mental Check-Ins
Written by Lily Thrope
Do you find yourself feeling scattered, distracted or simply all over the place? In our busy lives, we often forget to take time to pause, momentarily, briefly rest and ask ourselves: How am I really doing? A helpful method for asking yourself this question is by pressing that pause button and considering these emotions through regular mental health check-ins and self-reflection. By practicing these habits, you develop a stronger sense of self-compassion, improve your emotional regulation, and expand your self-awareness.
What is self-reflection?
Self-reflection, or a self-check-in, is essentially having a heart-to-heart conversation with yourself. It's a moment when you ask yourself how you are really doing and feeling. This exercise is, in itself, a form of mindfulness. By habitually practicing self-reflection, you make space to recognize your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations — without passing judgment.
What are the benefits of self-reflection?
There are many benefits to checking in with yourself. It is a method of creating a stronger relationship and connection between your mind and body. Self-reflection also helps you realign with your core values. When you take a moment to reflect on yourself, your reactions, your interactions with others, you reinforce what's important to you.
To start practicing self-reflection, try asking yourself a reflective question each day for a week. Here are seven questions you can use:
What does my body need at this moment?
What am I grateful for today?
How can I be kinder to myself right now?
What are my needs that are not being met at this moment?
What am I doing to bring myself joy?
What is one thing I can let go of that’s not serving me?
What has been worrying me lately?
Practice these daily check-ins for a week, then take a moment to reflect on any changes you’ve noticed. Journaling your findings is helpful. Though it takes time and practice, you may begin to see subtle shifts in your mindset and emotional well-being.
What are other ways to practice self-reflection?
Self-reflection can be accessed through mindfulness techniques, like meditation or breathing exercises. There are many variations of mindful breathing, such as belly breathing or box breathing, used in stressful moments. Taking deep, intentional breaths and visualizing your breath flowing down your spine and toward your feet can ground you in a stressful situation. Both our body and mind dramatically benefit from taking time to settle, be present, and re-energize, so you can go on with your day.
Another effective way to engage in self-reflection is to track your mood. Keeping a record of your emotions and feelings can help you identify patterns, triggers, and potential solutions to improve your overall well-being. You can use a journal or explore apps designed for mood tracking.
If you want to learn more about self-reflection and mental check-ins, consider speaking to a professional. Feel free to reach out to us at Thrope Therapy and schedule your free 15 minute consultation.You can email us with any questions or inquiries at hello@thropetherapy.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
