Have you ever wondered if you’re truly becoming the person you were meant to be? It’s a big question that psychology may just have some answers for.
We all strive for self-improvement and personal growth, but how do we know when we are on the right track?
Psychology offers some key signs that indicate you’re making progress towards your authentic self. These are the signs that reassure you that you’re not just changing, but evolving into who you’re truly meant to be.
In this article, I’ll guide you through these eight pivotal signs.
Let’s get started.
1) Embracing change
Change is often scary, but it’s a crucial part of personal growth and becoming the person you were intended to be.
Psychology emphasizes the importance of adaptability. Those who can embrace change rather than resist it often find themselves more resilient and prepared for life’s various twists and turns.
If you find yourself not only accepting change but actively seeking it out, that’s a strong sign you’re progressing on your journey of personal growth. It shows you’re willing to step outside of your comfort zone, challenge yourself, and embrace new experiences.
But remember, change is not just about making big leaps – it’s also about those small everyday choices that push you towards growth.
If you’ve started to welcome change with open arms, take it as a positive sign – you’re on the right track to becoming the person you were meant to be.
2) Growing self-awareness
One of the most profound shifts I’ve personally experienced on my journey to self-discovery has been an increase in self-awareness.
Psychology tells us that becoming more aware of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors is a pivotal step in personal growth. It’s about understanding why you react the way you do, acknowledging your strengths and weaknesses, and recognizing your patterns.
I remember a time when I used to get overly defensive whenever I received criticism. I couldn’t understand why my reactions were so strong. However, through a process of self-reflection, I realized it was due to a deep-seated fear of rejection. Recognizing this allowed me to approach criticism with a healthier mindset.
Your personal example might be different, but the fact remains the same: Increased self-awareness is a sure sign that you’re evolving into the person you were truly meant to be.
3) Cultivating healthy relationships
As we grow and evolve, so do our relationships. We start to value quality over quantity, choosing to surround ourselves with individuals who uplift us rather than bring us down.
Interestingly, research from the Mayo Clinic suggests that positive friendships can significantly impact our health. They can increase our sense of belonging, boost our happiness, reduce stress, and even help improve our self-confidence.
If you find yourself cultivating meaningful and healthy relationships, it’s a strong indicator that you’re becoming the person you were meant to be. This sign shows that you’re recognizing your worth and choosing to surround yourself with positivity and growth.
4) Learning from mistakes
Nobody likes making mistakes, but they’re an inevitable part of life. The key is not to avoid them, but rather to learn from them.
If you find that you’re no longer dwelling on your errors, but instead analyzing what went wrong and how you can avoid repeating the same mistake in the future, that’s a good sign.
This shift in mindset is a clear indicator of personal growth. It shows that you understand the value of experiences, both good and bad, in shaping you into the person you are meant to be.
When you make a mistake, don’t beat yourself up. Instead, view it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
5) Prioritizing self-care
There’s a beautiful saying, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” This is particularly true when it comes to personal growth.
If you’ve started to prioritize self-care – taking time out for yourself, doing things you love, prioritizing your mental and physical well-being – that’s a wonderful sign. It shows that you understand the importance of looking after yourself in order to become the best version of you.
Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential. And learning to love and care for yourself is one of the most empowering steps you can take on your journey to becoming the person you were meant to be.
It’s okay to put yourself first sometimes. Because when you’re at your best, you can give your best to others too.
6) Embracing vulnerability
There was a time I used to equate vulnerability with weakness. I’d put up walls, afraid to let people see me in my raw, unfiltered state. But over time, I’ve learned that there is strength in vulnerability.
Vulnerability is about letting your guard down and allowing yourself to be seen for who you truly are—flaws and all. It’s about opening up, taking risks, and stepping into the unknown.
When I accepted this and allowed myself to be vulnerable, I felt a sense of liberation. It opened up new avenues of connection and empathy with others and helped me grow in ways I never thought possible.
If you’re embracing your vulnerability, it’s a clear sign of personal growth. It shows that you’re becoming more comfortable in your own skin and are moving towards becoming the person you were meant to be.
7) Setting personal boundaries
Boundaries are crucial in maintaining a healthy relationship with ourselves and others. They help protect our time, energy, and emotional health.
If you’ve started to establish and enforce personal boundaries, it’s a significant indicator of growth. It means you’re respecting your own needs, acknowledging your limits, and ensuring others respect them too.
This practice not only helps you maintain your mental and emotional health but also allows you to prioritize what truly matters to you.
Whether it’s saying no to extra work when you’re already overwhelmed, or distancing yourself from toxic people, setting personal boundaries is an important step towards becoming the person you were meant to be.
8) Pursuing passion over popularity
True personal growth is about embracing your passions and values, even when they don’t align with mainstream expectations or societal norms.
If you find yourself pursuing what you love and believe in, rather than what’s popular or expected, that’s a significant sign of progress. It means you’re staying true to yourself and your dreams, and not allowing others’ opinions to sway your path.
This is a journey of authenticity, courage, and conviction. It’s about living a life that feels right to you, not one that just looks right to others. In the end, this is the path to becoming the person you were truly meant to be.
Final thoughts: It’s a journey
Carl Jung, a renowned psychologist, once said, “The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” There’s profound wisdom in these words. They remind us that the journey towards self-discovery is indeed one of the greatest privileges and adventures of life.
These signs are not definitive checkpoints but gentle reminders that you’re on the right track. They are subtle nudges that encourage you to keep moving forward, keep growing, and keep evolving.
So, if you resonate with these signs, cherish them. They are indications of your progress and growth. And even if you don’t, remember that everyone’s journey is unique. What matters most is that you continue on your path, always striving to become the best version of yourself.
As you embark on this journey of self-discovery, remember to be patient with yourself. After all, the most beautiful transformations often take time.
