Julia Carden Self Awareness Jigsaw

Julia Carden’s jigsaw model for self-awareness

Julia Carden presents self-awareness development as a jigsaw puzzle – emphasizing that there’s not one single way to develop self-awareness, but rather multiple pieces that fit together differently for each person.

  • Understanding what self-awareness is – Julia’s framework defines self-awareness comprehensively (values, beliefs, physiological responses, motivations, emotions – not just one aspect)

  • Reflection – a critical practice that can take many forms: meditation, mindfulness, journaling, poetry, mind mapping, or reflection with others
  • The right learning environment – creating safe spaces for reflection and growth
  • Experiential elements – learning through doing (leadership with your team, treks, silent retreats, coaching sessions)

The smaller pieces around the edges can be personalized. Each individual can add their own elements based on what works for them. Julia emphasizes in her book that she provides ideas for developing each “ingredient” of self-awareness at every stage.

Julia emphasizes in her book that she provides ideas for developing each “ingredient” of self-awareness at every stage.

More details on self-awareness and links to Julia’s book can be found on her website – https://carden-consulting.co.uk/self-awareness/