The coolest skill of all is metacognition, or thinking about thinking. In this book, science, philosophy, and practice converge equally. To get better, everyone must first determine what that personally means for them. «The Art of Self-Knowledge» invites readers on a journey, but not to some exotic destination, rather to themselves. This path can be dangerous, frightening, and uncomfortable, but in the end, everyone can expect a generous reward. Knowing oneself does not equal knowing one's biography - it is essential to realize what makes us happy, what makes us sad, and also which beliefs and values initiate such emotions.
Most people look outward for solutions to their problems, but that is like trying to bandage an open wound with a plaster. Everything that makes our life good or bad comes from within. It is time to discover what lies deep inside.
On the pages of this book, the author discusses important topics for the process of self-knowledge.
- Introspection, or how a simple set of questions can lead to the resolution of the deepest problems.
- Three levels of self-knowledge and the development of a mature personality.
- Values, goals, beliefs, and the search for personal guidelines.
- How to avoid self-deception and self-sabotage.
- Why self-awareness is, in fact, social consciousness and how it will help you succeed in society.
- Empathy and social intelligence.
Self-knowledge is social awareness. By knowing oneself, relationships with others will improve manifold. Understanding how emotions, values, and beliefs work ultimately allows for the true expression of empathy toward friends, family, and all those we hold dear.