I realized at some point during the last 20 years of my life, that in order for me to make a positive impact on the world around me, I needed to "get outside of myself." What do I mean by that? Let me explain, by first of all saying, it is pretty easy for me to focus on myself. You might say, it just comes naturally. However, I have discovered that focusing on others, though it does not come so naturally, is definitely worth the effort. Whenever I set out to show genuine interest in other people, I learn something. Whenever I ask people questions and listen to their answers, I learn more. Whenever I talk about things that interest others, or when I look at things from someone else's perspective, I learn even more.
Of course it takes time, energy and effort to not focus so much on self and to place ones energy into focusing on becoming genuinely interested in other people, but the results and benefits are incredible. The only thing that really matters in this world is the relationships you surround yourself with. I know I have been very blessed to have so many good friends who have taught me so much about myself and life in general. I am a rich man-not monetarily, but in relationships-for they are worth more than gold!
May I encourage you today to pause and ask yourself these questions: Am I happy in my relationships? Do I have an abundance of friends? Do people seem to enjoy my company? Do I talk too much about myself and my problems? Does it seem that people run from me as if I have the plague? Would others say I focus too much on myself? Am I focusing too much on myself? If your answer is "yes" to any of these questions, it's not too late to make a change in the way you communicate and deal with people. You may be surprised to discover that the first steps towards "getting outside of yourself" involve having self-respect and self-confidence, a sense of self-worth, and the ability to believe in yourself.
