Respect for self: Authentic Living Exercises to Reconnect with Who You Truly Are

Technique: Find your Flow

Step 1: Select your flow activity

If you already have something you enjoy but rarely make time for—like painting, strumming the guitar, gardening, or writing—start there. If you’re unsure, reflect on moments when time seemed to fly by. What were you doing? What brought you a sense of aliveness before life got busy or responsibilities took over?

Try these prompts:

• What’s something I used to love doing as a kid or teen?
• When do I feel most like myself?
• If I had a completely free afternoon, how would I spend it (no guilt allowed)?

Choose one flow activity to revisit this week.

Step 2: Calibrate challenge and skill

• Rate your current skill level in the activity on a scale of 1–10.
• Choose a challenge that’s just slightly beyond your current level (about 1–2 points higher). For example, if you love cooking, try a new, more complex recipe; if you enjoy writing, set a short, timed writing sprint with a unique prompt.
• Block 30 minutes of uninterrupted time.
• Fully immerse yourself in the task—turn off notifications and tune into your senses.
• Reflect afterward: How absorbed did you feel? Adjust the challenge up or down next time based on your experience. Decide on a specific action or mindset shift that will help you avoid repeating the mistake. Use this newfound knowledge as a tool for progress.