The busyness of attending classes, participating in organizations, and fulfilling personal demands often causes students to overlook one crucial thing: listening to themselves. Understanding oneself through a process of mindful reflection can be done using the STOP technique.
Psychologist Dwi Nurul Baroroh, M.Psi., explained that the STOP technique consists of four steps to manage emotions. First, stop and pause for a moment from all routine activities. Then, take a deep breath, inhale deeply through your nose, and exhale slowly through your mouth several times until you feel calmer. Next, Observe—notice what the body, mind, and emotions are experiencing. Finally, proceed—resume activities once you feel more relaxed and focused.
During an event titled “The Art of Self-Reflection: Appreciating Yourself and Facing Insecurity” held on 28 November 2025 by the Career and Student Development Unit (CSDU) FEB UGM at the FEB UGM Alumni Corner, she encouraged students to understand the importance of self-awareness as a foundation for mental health and personal growth.
Dwi emphasized that knowing oneself is not only about recognizing one’s strengths, but also acknowledging weaknesses, behavioral patterns, and how others perceive one. She quoted Socrates, stating that an unexamined life is not worth living. Through self-discovery, individuals can carry out their life roles more effectively.
The interactive Two Mirrors Game became one of the most engaging parts of the session. Participants wrote down their strengths and weaknesses on fan-shaped pieces of paper. This activity allowed them to reflect on themselves and understand how others viewed them. The activity continued with an explanation of the Johari Window Communication Model, which helps individuals understand four aspects of themselves: the open area, the blind area, the hidden area, and the unknown area. Through this model, participants were encouraged to see that self-understanding is a continuously evolving journey.
Dwi also explained that the process of knowing oneself always involves cognitive and emotional aspects. She invited participants to write personal journals, practice self-talk, and observe their daily behavior patterns. Individuals who can understand themselves are better prepared to accept circumstances as they are, which nurtures healthy self-confidence.
Furthermore, she highlighted that self-acceptance is one of the indicators of mental health. Individuals who can view their strengths and weaknesses in a balanced way tend to be more realistic, assertive, and able to build healthy relationships with their environment. Some participants noted that this process is not easy, but crucial for fostering honesty with oneself. The awareness model presented by Dwi, from self-awareness to self-actualization, encouraged participants to recognize that everyone has a unique developmental journey.
At the end of the session, the participants created clay decorations for their personal mirrors. This creative activity aimed to present a tangible symbol of self-reflection, with the mirror representing how individuals express themselves.
Report: Orie Priscylla Mapeda Lumalan
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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