One of the greatest questions I have ever known, and ask myself often is “Who are You?” It is not knowledge of the answer in this case that counts. What it does, is lead to the foundation from which physical, psychological, and spiritual growth are possible. Let us explore…
Words of Spiritual Wisdom
Be who you are and be that well. So that you may bring honor to the Master Craftsman whose handiwork you are.
St. Francis de Sales
Personal Development: To Be or Not To Be
There is a lot of noise in recent times about personal development. But what does it mean to develop personally, be yourself, and be that well?
Lately, I can’t help but notice how two-faced society has become. This is especially true when you see images or people that show themselves to be one way. Then, they engage in hypocrisy at its highest. Emphasis occurs on images, illusions of generative social value that likely do not represent reality. Yet, they consistently generate attention spans, and likely rank higher in the social spectra. But, what does this have to do with our personal development?
The Bible teaches,
To anyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; from anyone who has not, even what he has will be taken away. (Matthew, 13:12)
I wonder, why can’t we just focus on personal development and do that well?
Not to Be…
When it comes to personal development, I believe it to be a good exercise to start with the bad. This way, you can end on a good note. Minor leading to major always leaves a more positive feeling than a major tone ending in minor sadness. Life is no different, as who wants to end anything on a sad note?
While “not to be” has a negative connotation, for no is at its foundation, there are positives available. When we define what we are not, we create room for what can be to permeate and grow. If we know we are not world-class mountain climbers, why waste our time planning to traverse that trail? Instead, use the same time to focus on the strengths in your personal development journey. Pay attention to the directions your developmental journey calls you to traverse.
To not be is not a negative. It is a freeing agent. When you know what you are not, you are free. Being free lets you pursue those traits that create movement in the direction of who you are. Your personal development is a defining process. Who are you? What is your meaning or your purpose? Define what it is not, and then you can focus on those callings that urge you toward what you are.
Personal Development… To Be and Be That Well
I don’t know of any more pressing question than the gentle inquiry of “Who am I?” In philosophy, this type of question is called ontological. Ontology is the branch of metaphysics that deals with the nature of being. Even God states to Moses
God replied to Moses: I am who I am.* Then he added: This is what you will tell the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you.
Exodus 3:14
I am?
This passage has always profounded me. The etiology of I am is in the verb to be. To be, has a rich history dating back to pre-Christian Greek mythos. Philosophy, metaphysics, science, and religion all tap into the quandary that this linguistic anomaly poses. Yet, the ability to explore the deeper regions of the psyche is what gives this verb a universal perspective.
I am… What do you want to be today? Well, I guess that depends on the context. As I write this, I am a philosopher. What I am not at this moment, is a doctor. Or am I? Can you see the beauty that exists when the opposing forces start to coalesce? I am stands at the forefront of our personal development in this very way.
Who are You?
What a question! Who do you want to become? What is your purpose? What story will you have told?
All of these ontological questions lead you to the current moment. They exist in a paradox with the future you are creating. They are also built upon the foundation of the past you retain or have left behind. The only difference, in one scenario you have ignored the cracks to the foundation that exists. In the other, you have reinforced them to become an asset, a work of art, versus a liability.
The Psychology of Being
If we are created in the image of God, then to be is a process of developing toward that image. “Be who you are and be that well.” Not that I interpret the ego to be akin to the creator. It is not. However, what it allows us, is an inroad to where personal development can start. If you have work to finish, take one step to start the journey. Start. It only takes a moment and a will, something we have all been given. Just by beginning, you do, and by doing, you become, and by becoming, you are actively being. Creativity and tapping into the brainstorming mind is part of that process. What area do you need to focus on? What one or two steps can you take today to move in that direction?
The Moral of the Story
I will end with one of my favorite morals by Aesop.
A little common sense is often of more value than much cunning.
To be, takes a little common sense. Don’t fake it. It will catch up with you. Instead, view yourself with patience, and a little love. You have a lifetime to get to know the beautiful person that is you. Also, don’t forget to dream, and dream big. They represent possibilities. Even if not attained, they create movement and volition in the right direction. This helps you towards being who you are and being that well. For as Ralph Waldo Emerson reminds us,
“Its the not the Destination, It’s the journey.”
With blessings my friends. Let the wisdom of being find you on your journey. And as always, don’t forget to believe, envision, and advance confidently in the direction of your dreams.
Summary
- Embrace the journey of self-discovery. Start by defining what you are not, then focus on your strengths and follow your passions.
- Ask yourself the fundamental question: “Who am I?” Think about your purpose, your story, and the person you aspire to become.
- Take action! Even small steps toward your personal development goals can make a significant difference.
- Be patient, kind to yourself, and dream big! Remember, it’s the journey, not just the destination.
- Personal development is a process of self-discovery. It’s about understanding who you are, what your purpose is, and how you want to live your life.
- It’s essential to be authentic to yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not; embrace your unique qualities and strengths.
- Start by defining what you are not. This will help you focus on what truly matters and create space for personal growth.
- Actively engage in your personal development journey. Take small daily steps toward your goals, and don’t be afraid to dream big.
- Remember, personal development is a lifelong journey. Be patient, and kind to yourself. Enjoy the process of becoming the best version of yourself.
More from Dr. Thomas Maples
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