If we are patient and persistent, we will learn much about ourselves and why we feel and act the way we do. -The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous, pg 65.

To be persistent means to continually recur to the mind; to be retained. A habit is formed by persistently putting into practice the hobby, task or trade you wish to perfect. In order to make a lasting effect on your physical health, you need to exercise consistently. In order to play the guitar you must put hours into practicing. In order to know yourself better you must persist in finding the source of your feelings and actions. How do you do this? Here are some things to try for self-reflection…

Make a List of Character traits. While waiting for God to reveal the next step, try waiting patiently (which means without complaint) by focussing on intentional self-reflection time. During a few moments right now, make a list of the top three character traits you feel you possess. For a complete list of traits to get you started, CLICK HERE In order to determine what will work best for your life, in your current circumstances and coupled with your character traits, you can set yourself up to use those traits as assets and not liabilities. Someone who is fiercely loyal can also hold a grudge and may be unable to forgive if decieved. If someone is tenacious it may mean they make the same mistake over and over again forgetting that tenacity is preventing them from getting out of their current problem. Tenacity can turn to insanity very quickly if your actions are not reflected on properly.

Go to the Word. We cannot figure out ourselves without turning to the word. Getting close to God automatically gets us closer to the selves we were meant to be. By turning to the word we deflect negativity and reflect God’s glory.

You are my refuge and my shield. Your word is my source of hope. -Psalm 119:114

Do Something Fun.

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again-Rejoice! -Philippians 4:4

You cannot share what you do not experience. In order to live a life a faith, and show others the way to faith, joy should be a common part of your day. Take a class learning something you always wanted to learn but never did. Jump out of a plane. Learn to dive. Turn the music up real loud and dance around your house. (I recommend trying this when no one else is due home for at least an hour!) Trying out new things or revisiting old hobbies is the most fun way to figure out self.

What will you try today?