Knowing thyself is an ongoing process. Understanding oneself requires experiences,
introspection, and social interaction; it does not happen overnight. But why is self-awareness important? Being aware of who we are helps us make better decisions, comprehend why we do things, and lead more satisfying lives. Furthermore, we become more self-aware as we get to know ourselves, which improves our ability to manage our lives. Many philosophers have studied the path to self-knowledge, even in earlier times. Among the theories examined are those related to the unexamined life, immortal soul, soul as the essence of self, superiority of soul, theory of thinking, consciouseness, no self, experience, multilayered behavior, self as the brain, and subjectivity. Should I formulate a theory concerning myself, it would be one that is comprehensible and grounded in real-world experiences. This theory, known as The Theory of Influence, is simple to understand. This theory of self is based on the ways in which the people in our lives impact our personal development. According to this theory, our influence is primarily derived from four distinct components: our social network, workmates, family, and friends. Each of these elements is essential to our development. Their impact has helped us become who we really are. First and foremost, there is our family. Families have a significant influence on how a person develops their attitudes, beliefs, opportunities, habits, and personality traits. The family has a significant influence on a child's development and achievements. We all know people who, in spite of unfavorable or even truly terrible family circumstances, are incredibly accomplished and successful, and we also know people who, despite having seemingly loving and supportive families, do not reach their full potential. Some of us have great recollections of our family, who have shaped our identity since we were young. We are born into a world of expectations and values that we pick up from our guardians. We pick up lessons from watching and from the examples set by life as well as from these guardians guiding us. As we become older and more mature, we are better able to recognize the value of values and what is expected of us. Our family also plays a major role in shaping our social identities, religious beliefs, self-confidence, and many other aspects of our lives because we spend so much time with them. For instance, manners are typically instilled in children by their guardians at a young age, which positively affects identity. Meanwhile, as social beings, humans depend on friendships to give them a sense of belonging that is crucial to their identity. Friendships have a significant impact on how our values are developed and how we become the people we are today and will be tomorrow. However, the continuous exposure to pictures of people who appear to be flawless on social media platforms can cause young people to have inflated expectations for their own looks and accomplishments in life. Social media can make or break us. For some reason, the methods used to influence us, particularly in the present, work very well. All we need to do is decide which influence to absorb. This is also applicable in our professional lives– we meet people, we learn ways that influences us. In essence, self is growth– our self is influenced by many people as we grow.