To be a living human being means every moment involves some action. This may be passive (e.g., breathing) or active (e.g., speaking to someone) or all points between.

The point is that we are always behaving, that is acting in response to a particular situation or stimulus. Our behavior defines us. How your behavior is interpreted in the eyes of others is key to who you are.

Self Awareness

The way you view your own behavior, your motivation and rationale for what you do, is a key to self actualization but understanding how others perceive your actions is also critical.

For me, being self aware encompasses the ability to adapt your behavior for maximum personal pleasure within the context of other peoples views of your actions.

Although it may sound simple, behaving within the context “it’s all about me” while giving full credence to not impinging on the needs of others is actually a very difficult and complex activity.

Execution

The conundrum is being true to yourself while adhering to the views of others; views which can often be diametrically opposed to your own.

The ability to behave with a goal to make both yourself and everyone else happy – pleasure to all – is the underpinning of success. Our heroes and those we admire most can typically be (though not exclusively) both self centered and philanthropic (they love all people).

Self awareness starts with consciously paying attention to both how you are behaving at any given moment and how others are reacting to it. This is the easy part.

Deciding how to behave in a way that does not compromise your personality (your go to behaviors) while meeting the needs of others, now that is the tricky part.