How can we know who we are, and how do we become who we want to be?
The question of who we are and what the true nature of our being is has intrigued humanity throughout history. Different disciplines, such as philosophy, neuroscience, psychology, and spiritual traditions, have offered their perspectives on this mystery. Although they may seem entirely unique, they actually share many commonalities. All of these disciplines are the foundation of our content.
Philosophy: Know Thyself
Philosophy. Represented by figures such as Socrates, tells us that knowing ourselves is essential to discovering our true nature. Socrates said, “Know thyself”. This means that introspection and self-exploration are fundamental to understanding who we really are and how to achieve happiness.
Neuroscience and brain plasticity
Neuroscience. Through popularizers such as Mario Alonso Puig, we are led to the exploration of human potential through a journey into the brain and its plasticity. Countless studies show that by understanding how the brain works and how it influences our emotions, thoughts, and actions, we can shape it at will and harness its potential to achieve greater well-being and success in life. The greatest scientists in this field highlight the importance of positive attitude, resilience, and emotional management as key tools to unlock our potential and overcome challenges.
Psychology and the Quest for Self-Realization
Psychology, through thinkers such as Abraham Maslow, tells us about self-actualization. Maslow believed that we all have an innate desire to reach our full potential. Our true nature could be achieved through self-realization and personal development. The Positive Psychology specifically, with Martin Seligman as a central figure, seeks to understand how people can flourish and lead meaningful lives, highlighting the importance of gratitude, resilience, optimism, and positive relationships in the pursuit of a full and satisfying life.
Spiritual traditions and the connection to something greater than oneself
Spiritual Traditions such as Buddhism, Christianity, and Shamanism, also offer their perspectives. Buddhism, under the guidance of Buddha, tells us that our true nature is beyond illusion and suffering. Christianity, following the teachings of Jesus, emphasizes love and compassion as central elements of our true nature. Shamanism invites us to recognize that we are one with nature and all that exists.
For virtually all religions and spiritual traditions, what largely determines our degree of happiness is our relationship with others and with the great universal intelligence of which we are a part.
To sum up
The nature of the self is a profound mystery that has intrigued thinkers and scientists throughout history. Although perspectives vary, they all point to the importance of self-exploration, personal development, and connection to something greater as the path to discovering our true nature. Perhaps it is time to stop debating who is right and who is wrong, whether one religion or the other is better, or whether spirituality and science are incompatible. Today, it is more than demonstrated that all these disciplines are talking about the same thing but in different languages. So we can look for the answer in any of them or, even better, in ourselves.
Who are we?
Perhaps, the answers are hidden in the very journey we undertake to discover them.
Do you know your strengths?
Religions call them “values”, philosophers call them “virtues”, in companies they are defined as “soft skills”, and the WHO baptizes them as “life skills”. Whatever you label them, the important thing is that they empower you to successfully face the demands and challenges of your life.