by Carrie Shaffer

Created on: April 05, 2007   Last Updated: May 11, 2007

The illumination of knowing oneself can dispel depression, grant self esteem and change one's life experience from that of stumbling around not knowing one's passion to living a full and rewarding life. Having and pursuing your heartfelt passions is the key to happiness, and you must know yourself to know what these passions are.

For many, the first step in knowing oneself is knowing what you don't like doing. What do you find yourself daydreaming about during these times? This is a clue to your passions. You can make your daydreams reality, and do meaningful work that is what your heart craves, if you are willing to step outside of your comfort zone and take a chance. The saying "nothing ventured, nothing gained" is appropriate here.

Speaking from experience, I spent years in the state of clinical depression until I slowly began to venture out of my glum routine and have the courage to go for the things I wanted. I found that creativity, in many different ways of expression, was a passion and the key to get out of my dark dungeon. I found out that there was a lot more to me than a depressed, lazy person, and my process of self-discovery has surprised me so much because I never thought of myself as an entrepreneur, and now I am one, starting businesses and with more ideas for new ventures than I'll ever have time to pursue.

Look within, and don't judge what you find; rather explore it and follow your interests to places that will feed and nourish your process of self-discovery. Knowing oneself is the ultimate freedom, and the key to lasting happiness.

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