Introspection can be defined as a reflective looking inward; an examination of one’s own thoughts and feelings. However, “accurate” introspection is harder than it sounds.
Why? Because it turns out that humans have three important information-processing systems:
- Feelings (affects)
- Cognition(thinking and learning)
- Language
All three information-processing systems have profound liabilities as well as assets. They are what I call “messy systems.” Each is a double-edged sword, with conscious as well as unconscious aspects that can fuel forward progress as well as self-destructive or limiting behavior and emotions.
Why is introspection so important?
Because our actions are motivated by, caused by, our feelings, cognition, and aspects of language. The better we understand ourselves, the more chance we have of accomplishing what we want, attending to our interests and priorities, understanding others, and so on.
And here is where it really gets interesting. All this is complicated by the fact that the efforts at introspection may be influenced by unconscious issues—hence the importance of various therapies, psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, etc., and getting help with our own blind spots and early happenings of which we are not consciously aware.
This introspection enhances the capacity to understand one’s interests and feelings (curiosity, rage, shame, etc.), and more successfully achieve aspirations and cope with obstacles.
Empathy
Introspection can lead to empathy—that is the ability to become  aware of and sensitive to another person’s feelings, thoughts, motives, and experiences in a way that lets you actually experience them yourself.
Empathy does not include judgment of those feelings. Empathy is often fueled by curiosity, that is, the affect of interest.
Wrapping Up
Self-awareness, introspection, and empathy are essential to the development and survival of your personal development and your relationships. Looking outside of yourselves is very important, but looking inside and understanding your internal world is also essential to becoming the person you want to be.
