Have you ever considered how much time you devote to thinking about what others think of you? Have you ever thought of how much time you spend examining your own thoughts or feelings? Do what others think of you, mean more than what you think of yourself?  This is way it is important to learn to  be self-aware. But first, let's remember that there are two types of  self-awareness.  There is the self -awareness that is internal.  This is the deep knowledge that comes from recognizing what we feel and think about certain things.  Then there is the external awareness, which is the awareness of our environment, and the people around us. We need to not only be aware of ourselves, but  we must consider, how we are viewed by others in our lives.   Having this two-sided awareness gives us a total view of both who we really are and, and  where in life we fit in the world.   There are those who think being self-aware means caring only for oneself. In fact, all of us have the ability to become totally self-centered.  However a healthy amount  self-awareness is necessary in life.  Having a true knowledge about oneself, helps us think clearly and solve problems.  We are all unique. We all need a certain amount of support and encouragement. This is why, at times we need feedback from others. We need a group of people in our lives that will both love us and, who can provide necessary criticism.  There may be times when we are going in the wrong direction. So it is important to develop a firm foundation.  In the long term, the ability to question oneself is healthy outlook.  So while others opinions of who we are, and what we stand is important.  It is  important that we respect our own values, thoughts and viewpoints first.