In a seemingly increasingly individualistic world, self-awareness is often seen as the key to navigating life. Defined as the ability to understand one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, self-awareness is valuable—but incomplete. Humans do not exist in isolation; we rely on each other for love, worth, and connection.
Relational awareness goes beyond self-reflection, recognising that how we experience ourselves may not be how we come across. We may feel lonely, yet our way of relating deepens that loneliness. We may intend to be caring, but others perceive us differently. Understanding this dynamic is essential for meaningful relationships.
Therapy plays a role here, but some approaches focus too much on self-awareness without addressing relational patterns. This is why I value the relational approach of Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT), which sees identity as socially formed. CAT bridges self-awareness with relational awareness, helping people understand not just themselves but how they relate to others.
Growth does not happen in isolation. True change comes from understanding ourselves in relation to others.