Let the world change you for the better

In the euphoria of youthful adolescence we aspire to be role models to others, hope to make a difference to the world around us and expect to leave our mark on the world. Over time with the experience we gain, the maturity one attains and the realization that we have limited control over the happenings and people around us, we make a tactical retreat from our lofty ideals. Yet, off and on we still try to impose our ideas, attempt to brow beat others to our point of view and fondly hope that we are making a substantial contribution in changing the world around us. In this process we do gain some small victories occasionally but find ourselves caught up in the tide of the world around us and struggling to stay afloat.

On the other hand if we tweak our thoughts, change our attitude and modify our behavior so as to be more open to new thoughts, embrace new technologies and make peace with differing ideas and ideologies we would find ourselves more at peace, feel the pleasure of doing something different and enjoy the euphoria that comes from embracing change. Suddenly you will realize that slowly but steadily the world has helped you change and evolve into a much better person, a more competent individual and a very adaptable member of society. You have changed without compromising on your values, ethics and principles.

Here are some pointers to get the best out of the world around you

Have an open mind – This holds the key to learning from every situation, experience and failure. An open mind allows us the freedom to dare, risk and remain optimistic. Our crazy ideas make sense only when an open mind allows us the space to stretch our imagination and visualize the fructification of the idea into a tangible outcome. In the same way it allows one to discover the complications, the false assumptions, the unplanned deviations and the unexpected roadblocks without letting us lose our self belief. At the same time it allows us to inject a healthy dose of optimism, drives us passionately and helps us retain our zeal no matter what the obstacles.

Move out of your comfort zone – While all of us have dreams and some even indulge in day dreams, translating those dreams into action requires daring, courage and risk taking. This necessitates that one bite the bullet and take the risks, attempt something different and even have the courage to do what others least expect you to do. A person’s mettle is tested only when he/she is taking on new challenges, exploring uncharted territory and/ or confronting fears. This is also the time when one often discovers new personal strengths, abilities and qualities. This could also pave the way to achieving new milestones and exponential success.

Be prepared for surprises and shocks – If one were to really absorb and benefit from the influences of the world around us, we must be prepared to first embrace the surprises that come our way. Too many times we do not relish our success but worry that the success was an accident and may not repeat itself. Try new things, experience new outcomes. It is also essential to remember that when we try something different there could be some rude shocks too. These shocks would in all probability be temporary glitches or short term setbacks but that should not be construed to be a personal affront or colossal blunder.

Make every day count – Even as you read this, you are making judgments about the veracity of what you have read so far. If you largely agree with the points shared here you would need to quickly have a plan of action to put the learning to work. On the other hand if you are not in agreement with most of what you have read so far, then you must prepare to comment and share your views here. Either way, it is the first step to taking some concrete and decisive action. It is only when one takes decisive action then you make the day count.

The urge to make everyday count is a great motivator to have an open mind, accept the new and apply it, to become an even better person.

Try this:

Watch a regional / foreign language movie (the language should be one that you do not understand). If the movie has English subtitles it is perfectly ok.
Every week plan to play a new game that you have never tried before. Some suggestions are as under

A new card game
A different board game
An outdoor game like croquet/ baseball
Try your hand at archery / shooting / darts

Which of the following activities would you never dare attempt? Rank it in order of difficulty. Now try to attempt the least frightening activity within the next 2 months. Then keep attempting the others.