Embrace Change, Not Changing Others
Or leading by example, if you will.
Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.
I’ve been doing some thinking, kiddos. Surprisingly there are some thoughts I want to share with you. Thoughts about change. You got it, another lecture from Dad about the ethereal, the insubstantial, the esoteric. But hang in there, you may find some nuggets to hold onto if you pay attention.
First things first, let's talk about change. I've seen a lot of it in my life, and I've come to realize something crucial: people don't change because someone else wants them to. They change because they want to.
It's like when I ask you to clean your room. If you're doing it just because I asked, well, it might not be the most thorough job. But if you decide to do it because you genuinely want a tidy space, then that's a whole different ball game.
Now, I know it's tempting to want to change others, especially when we think we know what's best for them. But here's the thing: humans are a stubborn bunch.
Every time you find yourself irked by someone's behavior, it might just be a mirror reflecting something about you. Maybe it's a trait you don't like in yourself or something you're subconsciously struggling with. Instead of getting frustrated with others, use those moments as a chance to introspect and grow.
When you’re annoyed with your siblings for always leaving their stuff around, before you jump to conclusions, take a step back and think: Do I sometimes do the same? Why does it bother me so much?
It's a golden opportunity, really. By understanding what ticks us off about others, we get a clearer picture of our own quirks and can work on becoming better versions of ourselves.
So, the next time someone gets under your skin, remember good ol' Carl's words and turn that irritation into self-reflection. Trust me, it's a game-changer.
Another point: we're like mules sometimes, digging our heels in, especially when we feel pushed. Remember that time I tried to coerce you into eat broccoli by saying they were "tiny trees"? Yeah, didn't work out so well, did it?
But here's a little secret: the best way to inspire change isn't by pushing or prodding. It's by leading by example. It's like when I started eating healthier and suddenly, you all wanted a bite of my salads. (Okay, maybe not the best example as it didn’t last very long, but you get the point. And it was only one salad.)
True confidence, the kind that makes people sit up and take notice, isn't something you can fake. It's earned through experiences, challenges, and sometimes, a few scraped knees.
When you first learned to ride a bike, do you remember how many times you fell? But you got back up, and now you ride like the wind. That's the kind of confidence I'm talking about.
Life is going to throw some curveballs your way. Trust me, I've had my fair share. But it's how we face those challenges, how we endure and grow from them, that defines us.
If you plan a camping trip yet it rains the entire weekend, are you content to mope inside of the tent or just go home and pout? Or do you try and make the most of the situation, one which you cannot change. Go ahead and try to change the weather, kiddo. And good luck, that’s a hefty ask.
Now, here's something I really want you to understand: you are limitless. I know, I know, it sounds like one of those motivational posters with a soaring eagle.
But it's true. There's no ceiling you can't break through, no goal you can't achieve. And if anyone ever tells you otherwise, just remember all the times I've told you how incredible you are.
But realizing that potential? That's on you. It's like when you're learning a new skill. I can give you all the tools, all the advice, but at the end of the day, you have to put in the work. Sometimes that means letting go of self-doubt and those pesky limitations we put on ourselves.
Speaking of work, let's chat about habits. We all have them, good and bad. But remember, every choice, even the small ones, shape who we become. A trivial change, such as making your bed each morning will substantiate incredible change. It's a small thing, but it sets the tone for the day. And hey, coming back to a made bed at night isn't too shabby either.
If you ever find yourself stumbling or facing tough times, know that I'm always here for you. My love for you is unconditional. We all make mistakes, but it's how we bounce back that counts.
And if you ever need a reminder of how awesome you are, just come find me. I've got a lifetime supply of Dad pep talks ready to go. Lastly, don't rush. Change, real lasting change, takes time. It's a marathon, not a sprint. And sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination.
So, my dear children, as you go out into the world, remember this: focus on changing yourself, not others. Be the best version of you, and let that inspire those around you. And if you ever forget, just come back to this little chat of ours. I'll always be here, cheering you on.
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