Questions to Live By

Effective communication has been one of humanity’s biggest problems. As intelligent beings we have failed in establishing empowered and honest verbal and physical exchanges that could lead to a better understanding among diverse individuals. The problem though begins with our own self. How could we be able to communicate in compelling ways with others if we don’t do it first with the person we are supposed to know best? Know thyself!

I thought about questions we could use as guiding principles to begin our inner exploration; a self talk that could help us in discovering who we are, how to do we react to certain situations, how do we face our daily encounters, and how could we improve our dialogues with others in a way that there are no misunderstandings. As a rule, I never recommend anything I have not tried myself.

1. Can I honestly express who and how I am without blaming or criticizing myself?
2. Am I able to accept others the way they are without criticism or judgment?
3. When facing an uncomfortable situation, am I able to be objective or do I take it personal?
4. Am I able to clearly express my feelings without feeling guilty?
5. Am I meeting my own needs with joy and satisfaction?
6. Do I have the power to speak up and make requests based on my values, beliefs, and self worth?

Few times we question ourselves. However, as a tendency, we are quick to question, judge, and criticize others. Effective communication starts with self-knowledge, self-acceptance, self-love, and a flexible, open mind. Effective communication begins when instead of judging, we understand; instead of pushing away, we embrace and instead of clinging to old beliefs and habits, we let go.

Questioning ourselves is a balancing act; you are co-creating a dialogue with yourself. It can be applied in many ways that are helpful as a handy tool to better know and understand the inner self which rest hidden but wishes to make positive changes. Inquiring is powerful to improve our living. It becomes an art when we learn how to pay attention to our own responses and our physical reactions as many aspects of our lives are revealed through them. As a practice, a mirror could be your best friend. Look at yourself in a mirror and ask yourself the questions above. Feel your emotions with each honest answer. Observe your reactions. Take time to reflect on your responses. If the answers do not meet your needs, what actions are you going to take?

As a natural law, life is constantly changing. Your thoughts, beliefs, and goals will change too as part of the process. Never stop questioning. This could be your best self-assessment tool. As we begin a new year, let’s start by getting to know ourselves better in an effort to communicate with others in a peaceful and understanding way. Happy questioning!

“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning. “ ~ Albert Einstein~