What’s Your Motivation, Part 2
Someone once said, “Be yourself; everyone else is taken.” In a world driven by image, we easily can fall into the trap of trying to fit in or be liked. In doing so, we may become someone we are not.
I recall trying to create an image to get a girl’s attention. A mutual friend invited both of us to go to the beach. I thought this was my opportunity to impress. I will never forget how they made fun of me that day because in my attempt to project a different image, I was way over-dressed for the occasion.
You are never your best you when trying to fit in, be liked, or impress. Let me suggest two things to help you be the best you can be.
Learn to accept yourself for who you are.
Accept yourself rather than the person others say you are, or who you wish you were. You could give a lot of time, energy, and resources trying to deny or disown things about yourself because of what others say. This can range from small things – such clothing style, hair color, whether you wear glasses or contacts – to larger issues such as friendships, employment, or ethical convictions. I recall times when I acquired something simply because someone said I needed it, even though I personally disliked it.
Get to know yourself, and accept yourself for who you are regardless of what others may say. You are fearfully and wonderfully created by God (Ps.139:13, 14). Know your and dislikes, your strengths and weaknesses, and embrace them.
- Know the things about yourself that you cannot change and accept them.
- Know what things you can change and start working on them.
- Ask God to give you the wisdom to know the difference.
Do some work in the area of emotional intelligence in order to become self-aware, leading to better self-management – an area in which many of us struggle.
Complete a Myers-Briggs personality assessment and StrengthsFinder© assessment, followed up with coaching to better understand yourself.
Have a trusted few whom you ask to be honest with you.
You’ve likely heard the saying, “No man (person) is an island.” Lonely and self-focused is the person who does not see a need for others. God designed us to need each other.
You may have been hurt in the past and decided to not trust anyone again. I’ve discovered it takes more energy to erect walls to keep people away than it takes to let others in. Not only that, but the energy and emotions are often negative when we are putting up walls.
Learn to let others help you be the best you can be. This often produces positive energy and emotions as you are encouraged and challenged to grow and stretch. Proverbs 27:17 states, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (NLT). When we invite others in they are able to help us be our best. They keep us sharp.
What have you been doing to be the best you that you can be? Have you tried some things that have helped? We are interested in hearing from you. Leave us your comments.
Next week we will look at how to be your best for others.
If you would like to have a complimentary coaching session to help you be your best, contact us at 208-880-0307 or errol@errolcarrim.com