Merriam Webster defines awareness as:
awareness noun (aware·ness | \ ə-ˈwer-nəs )
- the quality or state of being aware
- knowledge and understanding that something is happening or exists
Let’s take a look at these…
1. the quality or state of being aware
When you are aware you see things, know things, perceive things.
You:
- see the obstacles in front of you
- know when the traffic light will turn green
- perceive the hints that your body is giving you saying, “enough, it’s time to stop.”
Awareness has levels.
When you’re on your phone your awareness is focused on the app you’re using, the message you’re texting, the cute cat video you’re watching. Your awareness is at a pinpoint level.
As you’re walking down the street, your awareness is focused on the path you’re taking, maybe on the grass along the way or the trees blowing in the wind. Your awareness is a little further out, but still close to home.
While you’re driving down the road, your awareness widens it’s focus and you start to take in the cars around you, the curve of the road, what’s happening many car lengths in front of you so that you are able to react in time.
The levels could go on and on until you are out in space and see the world as a whole, not just a continent, country, state/province, county, city, or neighborhood.
2. knowledge and understanding that something is happening or exists
(having or showing realization, perception, or knowledge)
As someone in your field of expertise, you have a sense of what is happening, what’s going on, and you might even be able to predict what will come.
You can see when someone is heading for a treacherous fail or an amazing success. You are aware of the possibilities and can navigate the waters that other deem too treacherous.
This is what makes you the “go to person”.
But what about in an area that is NOT your field of expertise? You may be able to stumble around, but you are unaware of the pitfalls that may surround you.
It is only through training and experience that your awareness grows and you’re able to see what was always there, but hidden due to lack of knowledge and understanding.
When the student is ready, the teacher will come…to bring awareness
No one learns alone. There is always a guide somewhere. A guide who pulls open the curtain and gives you a perspective.
Who has been a guide to you? Give them a shout out below. Thank them for growing your awareness.
What guide do you want to show up in the future? Let them know, reach out to them and get started!
Make it public! Tag them on Facebook or Instagram. Share the love!
Remember: Keep your eyes on the horizon, your hands on the wheel, and your foot on the GAS!!
Let’s DO THIS!
Amelia