The concept of the "self" is a complex and multifaceted one, and it has been a subject of

philosophical, psychological, and scientific inquiry for centuries. The definition of "self" can vary
depending on the perspective from which it is examined. Here are a few key ways to define the self:

1. **Philosophical Perspective:** In philosophy, the self is often regarded as the essence of an

individual's identity. It encompasses the thoughts, emotions, experiences, and consciousness that
make a person unique. Philosophers have debated whether the self is a continuous and unchanging
entity or whether it evolves and changes over time.

2. **Psychological Perspective:** From a psychological standpoint, the self refers to an individual's

psychological and emotional identity. It includes aspects such as self-concept (how one sees oneself),
self-esteem (how one values oneself), and self-awareness (the ability to introspect and understand
one's thoughts and emotions).

3. **Neuroscientific Perspective:** Neuroscientists study the self as a product of brain processes.

They investigate how the brain creates a sense of self-awareness and self-identity through neural
activity and networks.

Regarding the question of whether you are still yourself if you change your personality over time, it
largely depends on how you define "yourself." From a psychological perspective, individuals can
undergo personality changes and personal growth over time without losing their sense of self. The
core of who you are, including your values, beliefs, and fundamental identity, can remain intact while
your personality traits and behaviors evolve.

Self-awareness, as mentioned in the quote by Debbie Ford, is the ability to honestly examine your life
without judgment. It involves introspection and self-reflection to gain a deeper understanding of your
thoughts, emotions, motivations, and behaviors. Self-awareness can be cultivated and has several
benefits:

**Benefits of Increasing Self-Awareness:**

1. **Improved Emotional Intelligence:** Self-aware individuals are better at recognizing and
managing their emotions, as well as understanding the emotions of others.

2. **Enhanced Decision-Making:** Self-awareness helps you make decisions aligned with your values
and goals, reducing impulsivity.

3. **Better Relationships:** Understanding your own reactions and behaviors can lead to healthier
and more empathetic interactions with others.

4. **Personal Growth:** Self-awareness is a catalyst for personal development and growth, as it

allows you to identify areas for improvement.

5. **Stress Reduction:** Knowing your triggers and stressors can help you manage them effectively.

**Ways to Increase Self-Awareness:**

1. **Self-Reflection:** Dedicate time to think about your thoughts, feelings, and actions. Journaling
can be a helpful tool.

2. **Seek Feedback:** Ask for input from trusted friends, family, or a therapist to gain insights into
your behavior and its impact on others.

3. **Mindfulness and Meditation:** Practices that promote mindfulness can help you stay in the
present moment and become more aware of your thoughts and emotions.

4. **Personality Assessments:** Tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Big Five
Personality Traits can provide insights into your personality and preferences.
5. **Therapy or Counseling:** Professional guidance can help you explore deeper aspects of your
identity and behavior.

In summary, the self is a multifaceted concept that can be defined from various perspectives. Self-
awareness is the ability to introspect and understand one's thoughts and emotions without judgment,
and it offers several benefits for personal development and well-being. Increasing self-awareness can
be achieved through self-reflection, feedback, mindfulness, and other practices.