# Embracing Growth: A Practical Guide to Becoming Better
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Chapter 1: The Journey to Self-Improvement
Welcome back! In this final installment of our three-part series on personal growth, we will delve deeper into practical strategies for becoming better individuals. We’ll explore fundamental questions that can lead to heightened self-awareness and understanding.
If you haven't had a chance to catch up on parts one and two, you can find them linked here.
The most encouraging aspect of this journey is that you're not alone.
Your perspective plays a crucial role in this process. Albert Einstein once posed a profound question:
“Is the universe a friendly place?” This fundamental question is one that each person must answer for themselves.
“If we conclude that the universe is unfriendly, we might use our advancements in technology and science to build walls for safety and create weapons to combat that unfriendly nature. This could lead us to a point where our technology is so advanced that it could isolate or even destroy us in the process.”
“On the other hand, if we view the universe as neither friendly nor unfriendly, we might feel like mere victims of chance, leading our lives to lack real purpose.”
“However, if we embrace the idea that the universe is a friendly place, we can harness our technology and resources to build understanding and insight, which in turn leads to empowerment and safety.”
As spiritual beings, every religion and spiritual practice begins with the understanding that there’s a connection—whether it’s God, the universe, or a greater void—that seeks unity. This all-encompassing source is inherently benevolent, with Christians affirming that God is love.
“God does not play dice with the universe.”
God desires for you to thrive and feel connected. That’s the essence of why Jesus came to us. The universe reaches out to communicate with you, and Jesus’ life, teachings, love, and sacrifice were all part of this invitation to reconnect with God. This message is echoed by many spiritual teachers throughout history.
The pivotal question becomes: how can you align with this flow? When should you swim with the current, and when should you resist the worldly tides that may hold you back?
A productive way to start addressing this question and enhancing your life is to engage in self-reflection.
Part 3 begins with this inquiry: What are you afraid of? What causes you stress?
I must confess that I grapple with many fears. I tend to be reserved and introverted, often feeling apprehensive most of the time.
Interestingly, my quiet demeanor sometimes gives off the impression that I possess wisdom.
“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent” (Proverbs 17:28).
“Silence can be beneficial for the ignorant, and if they were aware of this, they wouldn’t remain ignorant.” (Saadi)
By staying quiet, you avoid making foolish statements, and speaking carelessly can lead to embarrassment.
While silence can be advantageous, living in fear is not a desirable state.
Take a moment to list your fears. Write down everything—big and small. Death, snakes, financial struggles, public speaking (which might be at the top of your list), heights, and more. Everyone has their own unique fears, and each one can hinder your progress.
However, not all fears are detrimental. Recently, I found myself climbing onto my roof to trim branches and clean gutters, despite my longstanding fear of heights. At 67, I realized this was a reckless decision.
What was I thinking?
Fortunately, I managed to navigate the situation without incident, but I won’t repeat that mistake.
I once feared public speaking, but eventually, I became a pastor, required to deliver messages in front of an audience weekly. Initially, I would become physically ill before each presentation, but over time, I learned to channel that anxiety into positive energy.
Now, I no longer dread public speaking—I’ve conquered one of the most common fears.
You may have fears that are very real and potentially insurmountable, which could be wise to respect. Yet, there are also fears that you can overcome—those that are merely illusions, preventing you from realizing your true potential.
Identify which fears are genuine and which are mere obstacles created by your mind.
Utilizing meditation and prayer can invite support from God, the universe, Jesus, or any source you feel connected to. You might also consider enlisting the assistance of a trusted friend, mentor, or therapist.
The goal is to select a specific fear and devise a plan to confront it.
Consider enrolling in a course, seeking training, or gradually desensitizing yourself to that fear.
Once you conquer one, keep the momentum going. Choose another fear to tackle, armed with the knowledge that the universe and God wish for you to flourish.
One of the most frequent messages in the Bible is “Do not be afraid.”
Here are additional questions to help you become better at life:
- What drains my energy?
- What brings me relaxation?
- What evokes sadness or anger?
- What brings me joy?
Each of these inquiries can kickstart your journey toward self-awareness. Don’t shy away from asking these questions—they are intended for your growth.
“And then what?”
Focus on amplifying the positive aspects of your life while reducing the negative influences.
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