As we grow and evolve, there’s the urge to really know who we are, why we do the things we do, act the way we do, what we are here for (some call it purpose) and what we love & enjoy. On this post I share some questions that will guide you on all things self awareness and discovery.
We also have some cute cards with the questions below which you can download, stick to your journal as you answer them. Find self reflection cards on Amazon here and more conversation, game cards on our store here.
Personally, I go through the questions once in a while especially when I feel like am in an introspection space and when about to make major life decisions. You can also do the questions with your friends, they are perfect conversation starters and ways to have those deep conversations.
“Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.”
Table of Contents
Self Reflection Questions for Self Discovery and Development.
Childhood & Family
- Reflect on a recurring dream or memory from your childhood. How does it make you feel today?
- What did you enjoy most about your education (formal or informal)? What did you find challenging?
- Describe your relationship with your family. Was there open communication, or were there unspoken rules?
- What lessons did you learn from your primary caregivers (parents, guardians)?
- How comfortable are you expressing your emotions within your family?
- Are there any family traditions you cherish? Why are they important to you?
- Have you forgiven any past hurts or conflicts within your family?
- What qualities do you admire most in your family members?
- How would you describe your role within your family (peacemaker, mediator, etc.)?
- Do you feel a sense of belonging within your family? Explain your answer.
- Was there a significant adult figure in your childhood who positively impacted you? How?
- What childhood experiences shaped your values or beliefs?
- Are there any unresolved issues from your childhood that still affect you today?
- If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
- Imagine your ideal family dynamic. What does it look like?
- How do you want to nurture future generations in your family (children, nieces/nephews)?
- Do you feel a sense of responsibility towards your family lineage?
- What cultural traditions from your family do you want to preserve?
- How comfortable are you discussing your family history, even the challenging parts?
- Knowing what you know now, would you change anything about your upbringing?
Work & Career.
- What are you naturally good at in your profession? How can you utilize these strengths further?
- What aspects of your current work environment drain your energy?
- If money and limitations weren’t a concern, what kind of work would you be doing?
- What are your long-term career goals? What steps can you take to achieve them?
- Do you feel fulfilled and challenged in your current role? Why or why not?
- What are your salary expectations, and how do they align with your current or desired position?
- Do you prioritize work-life balance, or do you tend to lean more towards one side?
- What leadership qualities do you admire most? How can you cultivate them in yourself?
- Do you feel comfortable advocating for yourself in the workplace (e.g., asking for a raise)?
- Imagine your ideal work environment. What does it look like in terms of culture, colleagues, and leadership?
- Are you open to learning new skills or exploring different career paths?
- What are your biggest professional accomplishments so far? How did they make you feel?
- Do you find your work meaningful? Does it contribute to a larger purpose?
- How do you handle work-related stress? Are there healthier coping mechanisms you could adopt?
- What are your dealbreakers in a work environment?
- How comfortable are you taking calculated risks in your career?
- Do you have a mentor or someone you look up to professionally? Why?
- How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?
- What are your biggest fears or uncertainties related to your career?
- How do you plan to continuously learn and develop professionally throughout your career?
Work & Career.
- What are your go-to methods for de-stressing and recharging?
- How do you learn best? (e.g., visual, auditory, hands-on)
- Do you prioritize getting enough sleep each night? How does sleep impact your mood and energy levels?
- What is your relationship with food? Do you eat intuitively or emotionally?
- Do you engage in regular physical activity? Why or why not?
- How do you manage your finances? Are you a spender or a saver
- Do you have a budget and track your expenses?
- How comfortable are you asking for help when you need it?
- What are your typical procrastination triggers? How can you overcome them?
- Do you make time for hobbies or activities that bring you joy?
Relationships & Social Life.
- What makes you a good friend/partner/family member?
- Do you struggle with saying no or setting boundaries in relationships?
- Are you an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert? How does this influence your social interactions?
- What communication style do you find most effective? (direct, passive-aggressive, etc.)
- Do you feel comfortable expressing your emotions openly with loved ones?
- How do you handle conflict in your relationships?
- What are your dealbreakers in friendships or romantic relationships?
- Do you have a healthy support system? How can you strengthen it?
- Are you comfortable being vulnerable with others? Why or why not?
- What kind of energy do you bring to your relationships? (positive, negative, draining, etc.)
Values & Beliefs.
- What core values are most important to you? (e.g., honesty, compassion, integrity)
- Do you live your life according to your values? If not, what changes can you make?
- What are some of your limiting beliefs that might be holding you back?
- How open are you to considering different perspectives and beliefs?
- Do you have a spiritual or religious belief system? How does it guide your life?
- What is your definition of success? Is it based on external validation or internal fulfillment?
- What causes or issues are you passionate about? Why?
- How do you want to contribute to the world around you?
- What legacy do you want to leave behind?
- Are you comfortable challenging the status quo or societal norms? Why or why not?
Personal Growth & Learning
- Do you believe your abilities can be developed, or do you feel stuck in a fixed mindset?
- Is there a skill you’ve always wanted to learn? Now’s the time to start!
- How do you stay curious and open to new experiences?
- What are some challenges you’ve faced recently? What did you learn from them?
- Do you celebrate your successes, big or small?
- How do you handle failures or setbacks? Do you see them as learning opportunities?
- Are you comfortable stepping outside your comfort zone? Why or why not?
- What are some areas where you’d like to see personal growth?
- Do you set goals for yourself regularly? How do you track your progress?
- Who are some inspirational role models you admire? What qualities do you want to emulate?
Self-Reflection & Mindfulness
- What are your emotional triggers? How can you better manage your reactions?
- When someone criticizes you, how does it typically make you feel?
- Think about a time you made a decision. What factors influenced your choice?
- Close your eyes and focus on your breath. Describe the physical sensations you experience.
- Take a walk in nature. Pay attention to the sights, sounds, smells, and textures around you. How does being present in the moment affect you? 86. What are your comfort foods or activities? How do they make you feel physically and emotionally?
- How would you describe your typical posture? Does it change depending on the situation?
- What do you typically fidget with when you’re nervous? What does this reveal about your inner state?
- Imagine someone describing you to a stranger. What positive and negative traits do you think they would mention? How does this align with how you see yourself?
- What is a recurring theme or pattern you’ve noticed in your life experiences?
Bonus Questions
- What is your favorite thing about yourself?
- What brings you the most joy in life?
- What brings you a sense of peace and tranquility?
- What is your happy place? Describe it in detail.
- What fictional character do you identify with most? Why?
- If you could have one superpower, what would it be and why?
- What historical period would you love to travel to and why?
- What is your biggest dream, something that might seem far-fetched but excites you nonetheless?
- Write a letter to your future self. What advice or words of encouragement would you share?
- Thank yourself for something you did well today, big or small.
Remember, self-discovery is a continuous journey. Don’t be afraid to revisit these questions throughout your life as you grow and evolve.
