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Self-Awareness Matters

Psychological awareness, often referred to as self-awareness, is the ability to understand your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It’s like having an inner mirror reflecting your mental and emotional landscape, allowing you to recognize your patterns, motivations, and reactions. This understanding is fundamental to navigating life with greater clarity and purpose, not only emotionally but in your relationships.  

Self-awareness matters and the good news is that it can be cultivated. I see it unfold all the time in my work, especially rewarding when they develop new understandings of who they are and start to change unhelpful core beliefs which perhaps have held them back.

Here are three ways to begin to improve your self-awareness:

  • Mindfulness Meditation: Regular mindfulness practice helps you observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment, increasing your awareness of your inner state. 
  • Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and emotions can provide valuable insights into your patterns and triggers. It also can help you track your progress.   
  • Feedback from Others: Seeking feedback from trusted friends, family, or therapists can offer valuable perspectives on your behavior and blind spots.

Learn more on this topic in the full version of my piece, Self-Awareness: A Key to Emotional and Relationship Health, on my other site,  LoveAndLifeToolbox.com.

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If you need help identifying the areas that need focus or making deeper level changes for yourself, check out my offerings:

Marin Individual Therapy

Outside of Marin but still in California? Check out my  California Online Therapy  services.

Out of California and/or not quite ready for therapy but would still like my feedback and guidance? See my Ask Lisa Consultation service via email on LoveAndLifeToolbox.com.

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Contact me  to inquire about scheduling an appointment.

 

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Jennine Estes
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I’ve had the pleasure of working with Lisa Kift for many years, both in previous clinics and with mutual clients. Lisa is a deeply knowledgeable and skilled therapist who brings insight, empathy, and clarity to her work. She has a strong focus on family-of-origin dynamics and how early experiences shape current relational and emotional patterns. Lisa is an active and engaged clinician—she doesn’t just sit back, but thoughtfully guides her clients through the healing process. I highly recommend working with Lisa at Marin Therapy and Counseling. She is a trusted colleague and a true asset to the field.
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Heather Trimble profile picture
Heather Trimble
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I am a strong believer in therapy and have worked with many therapists for over 20 years but Lisa is by far the best. After working with Lisa for the past 5 years, she has been there for me through some of my highest highs and lowest lows. She helps me take a step back and think about situations or problems with a different lens. She has always supported a cadence that worked best for me, starting with once a week and winding down to once a month. I am so thankful to have found Lisa and would recommend her to anyone!

Lisa Brookes Kift is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #45087
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