If you change the way you see yourself, you will change the way you see the world. Muhammad Ali once said, “The man who views the world at 50 the same as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life.” How we change over our lifetime is an integrated result of our view of the world and the view of ourselves.
Most people look outwards upon the world, but it is just as important to have an inward focus. You must start with yourself.
Here are four valuable approaches that will change you and the way you view yourself.
1. Add value to others: If you dedicate some of your time, money, or energy in helping others, you will change yourself. People that give of themselves gain significance, fulfillment, personal growth, and a new attitude. By helping others you are helping yourself.
2. Know your values: Every person has a unique view of the world. It starts with who we are. Every year I review what it is that I value. It helps me ground myself, make sure I am aligned, but it also provides a framework for my world.
3. Add value to yourself: You cannot give to others that which you do not have. If you want to grow in significance, you must invest in yourself. There are many ways to grow your capabilities such as reading, joining a group, taking a class, and utilizing a coach or mentor.
4. Being disciplined and accountable: This is the process by which we transform dreams and hopes into reality. If we take action and we follow through in order to accomplish our goals, then our view of what can be accomplished increases dramatically. We become more aware of the possibilities. If we are stuck, and our dreams are only dreams, then we will remain stuck in our current place.
This approach may seem simple, or it may seem overwhelming. We are all in different places along our journey. If you can build these four practices into your daily life, then you will have a better view of your world. If you need some help getting started, send me an email at mbrown@newroadsleadership.com.