How would you describe yourself? Where did your mind go as you read the question? Did you begin thinking about your physical features or did you think of your inner qualities? Most of us immediately describe how we look, when in actually the specific details of what creates our inner being is much more valuable in describing who we are. We can strive for personal development by having a core awareness of how to describe our inner qualities.
Ideally, the question should be answered from the lens of what defines you as a person; and that starts from within. We should not completely ignore or neglect what is on the outside but it cannot be the only focus. First prioritize to what is internal, because it influences how we see ourselves and the ways we engage with our outside world. Whatever is experienced in the outside, first begins within. Our external reality is created by our thoughts, attitudes and character.
Merriam-Webster’s definition of the word ‘character’ is “the complex of mental and ethical traits marking and often individualizing a person…” or “moral excellence and firmness.”
Notice one of the descriptions include the word “complex.” That word beautifully describes us as human beings. We are complex being that can do so much and have a vast amount of potential. We have the potential to continuously develop by changing how we define who we are, and we can push ourselves to obtain greater heights. Unlike other mammals, we are unique in our abilities to strive for personal growth and continuously transform to a better and greater aspect of ourselves. Unfortunately, we do not always choose to do so.
The second definition provides a description of what we all should aim for as we live our lives. We must constantly aim for unshakable excellence, and that is possible through a focus on personal growth.
How To Strive For Personal Growth?
It starts with a few key elements which include having a focused desire for personal development at the forefront of, and desiring it so much that we are ready to actively engage in the process. Simply, it is caring enough to act.
Intentionally engage in the process of personal development with: curiosity by asking questions like who are we and how we are living, acceptance of what you need, frequent reassessments and adjusting whatever is not working well, and full engagement by taking action towards goals. During the process, you will naturally create and attract opportunities to further expand yourself and achieve excellence. All is possible through diligent practice of these attitudes and actions that are helping you approach personal development with care.
Set a commitment to approach personal development with C.A.R.E:
Curiosity
Acceptance
Reassessments
Engagement
By engaging in a process of ongoing personal development, we are living as high quality people. We continuously focus on things that can help refine who we are, how we live, and the impact we have for those around us. We are aware of our inner potential and motivated to reinforce practices that can help allow our brilliance to shine through.
We are on a lifelong journey of cultivating a greater version of ourselves. In doing so, we are creating experiences where we are engaged with life and having a positive influence in various areas of our lives. Now, let that beautiful brilliance shine!
To engage in your pursuit of ongoing personal development, build on the following practice:
- Live life from an inside-out approach (Internal focus – “it starts with me”) – Asking yourself questions like: How did I create this experience? or What can I do get what I want?
- Engage in frequent honest inward-focused reflections – connecting with the deeper essence of ‘who’ you are, ‘what’ you want out of life, and ‘how’ are you accomplishing it – as you live life – Asking yourself questions like: What qualities do I choose to describe and identify as? or What do I want out of my life? or How am I living what I want?
In asking ourselves these questions, we create an experience of living a life connected with our core selves – our character traits and inner being – and personal needs. Because we are on a continuous process of self-reflection, it also means we can be proactive with implementing necessary changes in a timely manner. Ultimately, it all has a greater impact on how we influence our life, and the world.
Remember…
What describes you goes deeper than what is on the outside.
So, ask yourself:
What are my character traits?
How can I approach life with CARE, and practice an inside-out approach?
Consciously choose to Discover ~ Connect ~ Live
