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After reading "Path of Counselor Self-Awareness" (2014), I realized that counselors have a duty to practice self-awareness for both ourselves and our clients. I have noticed in all of my classes, we engage in self-reflection, which enhances our metacognitive skills. Unfortunately, our society often neglects self-reflection and emotional awareness. As counselors, we must recognize our own emotional states, which requires us to pause and conduct a personal inventory of our feelings and emotions.

Reference:

Pompeo, A. M., & Levitt, D. H. (2014). A Path of Counselor Self-Awareness. Counseling & Values, 59(1), 80–94. https://doi-org.easydb.angelo.edu/10.1002/j.2161-007X.2014.00043.x

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As a former teacher, I remember the overwhelming sense of burnout and rising stress levels. To become a better educator, I realized I needed to prioritize my well-being. I established clear boundaries and set specific times to complete my work each day, which not only improved my teaching but also enhanced my job satisfaction. As a counselor, I plan to apply these same principles to maintain my well-being and continue implementing effective strategies.

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The first step toward emotional well-being is developing self-awareness about your feelings and mental state. This process often requires time spent in solitude to reflect. Personally, I find running to be an effective way to practice mindfulness while also enjoying the endorphin boost that comes from physical activity.

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Another strategy I use for relaxation is coloring. I have a scripture coloring book and as I color, I listen to audiobooks, which creates a calming and soothing atmosphere for me.