Oftentimes, we’re not even aware when we’ve started to evolve into the person we always aspired to be.

With this in mind, I want to help you recognize the signs that you’re on the right path. So, I’ve compiled a list of 8 signs that suggest you’re becoming the version of yourself you always needed.

This isn’t about manipulation or outside influence, but rather about honoring your individual journey and embracing the changes within you.

Now, let’s dive in and uncover these signs – because recognizing them can be your first step towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.

1) Increased self-awareness

One of the first signs that you’re becoming the version of yourself you always needed is a heightened sense of self-awareness.

It’s when you start noticing patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and actions. You begin to understand why you react the way you do in certain situations, and this understanding gives you a deeper insight into your own mind.

This level of awareness is crucial because it’s the first step towards changing unwanted behaviors and fostering healthier ones.

It’s not about conforming to societal expectations or mimicking someone else’s journey; it’s about embracing your own individuality and learning from it.

2) Embracing discomfort

This might sound counterintuitive, but hear me out.

I remember a time when I was terrified of public speaking. The mere thought of it would send me into a panic. But I knew that if I wanted to grow, I had to face this fear head-on.

So, I started with small steps, like speaking up in meetings or presenting to small groups. Over time, I began to feel more comfortable in these situations.

The discomfort didn’t disappear overnight, and there were certainly moments of anxiety and self-doubt. But by persistently pushing myself out of my comfort zone, I was able to transform my fear into a strength.

As the saying goes, “Growth happens at the edge of your comfort zone”. And in my experience, that couldn’t be more true.

3) Letting go of ego

As we journey towards becoming the best version of ourselves, one of the most significant shifts we experience is letting go of our ego.

Ego, in this context, is not about self-esteem or confidence, but rather it’s about the part of us that is overly concerned with self-image and validation from others. It’s the part that resists change because it’s comfortable with the status quo.

When you start noticing a shift from being ego-driven to being more authentic and true to yourself, that’s a clear sign that you’re becoming the person you always needed to be.

Letting go of ego doesn’t mean losing your identity; it means finding your true self beneath all the layers of conditioning and societal expectations.

4) Improved emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is another key indicator of personal growth. It’s the ability to understand, use, and manage your own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges, and defuse conflict.

People with high emotional intelligence are not only aware of their own emotions, but they’re also capable of understanding others’ emotions. They can read emotional cues and respond appropriately, fostering healthier and more meaningful relationships.

Furthermore, psychological research suggests that emotional intelligence is linked to everything from decision-making to academic achievement and job performance.

So if you find yourself becoming more adept at managing your emotions and understanding those of others, it’s a significant sign that you’re evolving into the version of yourself you always needed.

5) Comfort in solitude

Here’s one that might seem a bit counter-intuitive: finding comfort in solitude.

In a world that often equates being alone with being lonely, the ability to enjoy your own company is a powerful sign of personal growth. It’s about recognizing that solitude can provide a space for reflection, creativity, and self-discovery.

Don’t get me wrong. This doesn’t mean isolating yourself or avoiding social connections. Human beings are social creatures, after all. But it’s about not needing constant external stimulation or validation to feel complete.

The next time you find yourself at peace while spending time alone, consider it a positive sign of your journey towards becoming the version of yourself you always needed.

6) Embracing vulnerability

Another sign of personal growth is embracing vulnerability. Brene Brown, a renowned research professor, has spent years studying vulnerability, courage, authenticity, and shame. She defines vulnerability as “uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure.”

Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but in reality, it’s a strength. It’s about having the courage to show up and be seen, even when there are no guarantees. It’s about taking risks in the pursuit of authenticity and meaningful connections.

So if you find yourself opening up more, taking risks, and being okay with the uncertainty that comes with it, know that you’re on the right path to becoming the person you always needed to be.

As Brene Brown says, “Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome.”

7) Trusting your intuition

There was a time when I would second-guess every decision, constantly worrying about making the “right” choice. But over the years, I’ve learned to trust my intuition more.

Intuition is that gut feeling, that inner voice that often knows the answer before our rational mind catches up. It’s a powerful tool that can guide us in our journey of personal growth.

Of course, this doesn’t mean ignoring logic or facts. But it’s about finding a balance and acknowledging that sometimes, our intuition can lead us to insights and understandings that our conscious mind might overlook.

So if you find yourself trusting your gut feelings more, it’s a significant sign of personal growth and evolution. 

8) Setting healthier boundaries

Boundaries are essential for maintaining balance and protecting our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It’s about understanding our limits and communicating them effectively to others.

When we fail to establish clear boundaries, we risk overextending ourselves, leading to stress, burnout, and strained relationships. On the flip side, setting and respecting boundaries can lead to improved self-esteem, healthier relationships, and overall increased life satisfaction.

So if you find yourself better at saying ‘no’ when needed and advocating for your personal space and time, consider it a sign of significant personal growth.

As Christine Morgan said, “Setting boundaries is a way of caring for myself. It doesn’t make me mean, selfish, or uncaring because I don’t do things your way. I care about me too.”

Final thoughts: The journey within

Becoming the version of yourself you always needed isn’t an overnight process. It’s a lifelong journey, often marked by self-discovery, growth, and transformation.

These signs are not a checklist but rather a guide that can help you recognize your personal evolution. You might find some signs more prevalent than others, and that’s okay. Each person’s journey is unique and deeply personal.

The key takeaway here is to remain patient and compassionate with yourself. Personal growth is not about perfection; it’s about progress. And every step you take, no matter how small it seems, is a step towards becoming the best version of yourself.

So as you reflect on your journey thus far, remember this: You are on the right path. You are growing, evolving, and becoming the person you always needed to be.

And that, my friend, is worth celebrating.