Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Changing Yourself First

I came across this common saying today that made me think about all those times I've tried to change situations or other people with very little success:

"The only person you can really change is yourself"

Somewhat related to this idea is Gandhi's popular quote:

"Be the change you wish to see in the world"

Together these quotes emphasize the importance of the individual and the change that happens on the personal level. As my mom always said, "Don't worry about what everyone around you is doing, just worry about yourself."

Do you find that you're asking others to change, but not seeing the changes you can make in your own life? How can you can rethink your attitude or actions so you can be happier with your situation and the people around you? In what ways can YOU grow, learn, and develop to make the most of who you are?

You've probably thought about these things already, but if you'd like to spend some dedicated time on personal development, send me an email at leeknight@overachievercoach.com and we can set you up with some one-on-one coaching to help you be the best you can be!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

That Gandhi quote is everywhere - be the change you wish to see in the world.

I get that it's all about being a good person first, but what if I really want to help people be aware that they can do stuff to save the environment. It's great that I recycle and turn off the lights in my house, but that's not really going to make much of a difference.

I think it's too idealistic to assume that everyone is working to improve themselves and by doing so, that will make enough of a difference.

Lee Knight said...

That's a fair comment. But who's to say what's important or what comprises "good" or positive change in the world.

I agree that Gandhi's quote is overused (and maybe often used without meaning). But it's a good way to remind ourselves that we should first embody the values we espouse (by recycling and turning off the lights) and then we can turn our efforts to bringing awareness to the masses (while still keeping our values in line).

As the elections come along, it's interesting to think whether the candidates are trying to be the change they wish to see in the world...

Ricki Ramos said...

Your mom's quote is a great one. It may be enhanced by changing the word WORRY to FOCUS...
Worry implies problems, issues, things you have no control over. Focus could be considered the postive type of worry, tying in logical action and planning.

Anonymous said...

I really believe that some people do worry over things that they cannot change. At times I wounder why a person does this because it only causes stress.