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“The only person you should try to be better than, is the person you were yesterday.”
Do you ever find yourself looking to another to find successful habits?
Do you envy others because of their achievements or talents?
Why? We are each uniquely designed and have strengths that are specific to us as individuals. It’s like the beads in an old-school kaleidoscope toy; no two combinations are ever equivalent. The probability of someone holding this toy made of tin in the exact same position, with the exact same angle, to produce the exact same bead combination is impracticable–if not impossible. Likewise, comparing yourself to others and patterning your “success journey” based on their actions is equally unlikely.
Theodore Roosevelt couldn’t have said it better when he said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.”
In fact, “comparison” has the potential to rob both parties of joy. Everyone should be able to play to their strengths and share their enthusiasm without being judged. As educators, if we are teaching students and staff members to embrace their individuality and find where they fit in the big puzzle of this world, we must model this ourselves.
George Couros recently posted a video that has stuck with me, “Who’s your hero?” In this video, a quote was made, “My hero is me in the next ten years.” I.LOVE.THAT! I’m embracing this idea. Why not? Similar to trying to replicate the distinct sequences of the kaleidoscope beads, if you choose to compete with others, the odds of attaining your mission are improbable; it’s a setup for failure.
Be REAL.
Be YOU!
Be PERSISTENT!
Work HARD!
Fulfill YOUR purpose in this life!
That’s all we can REALLY do anyway.
I am an educator who values the individuality and uniqueness of others. Writing the blog R.E.A.L. is an outlet for me to pay it forward by sharing ideas, influences, lessons learned and exposing a little vulnerability while encouraging others to maximize their R.E.A.L. potential, as well.