#49. Look Inward To Achieve Outward.
Who Is Defining Your Future?
In the tapestry of human existence, change remains a constant, yet it’s often sought externally. “Look Inward to Achieve Outward” encapsulates a profound truth: the genesis of substantial change begins within ourselves. This principle underlines that before we can expect the world around us to transform, we must first embark on the introspective journey of self-evolution.
The quest for change is as old as humanity itself, but the direction of our search is frequently outward. We tend to focus on altering our surroundings, improving conditions, or changing others. However, this external pursuit often overlooks the pivotal starting point of all change: the individual. Every monumental shift that has shaped societies and cultures has been powered by individuals who first dared to change their thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours.
Inward change is the cultivation of the self, which involves introspection, self-assessment, and a willingness to confront our shortcomings and potential. It is about aligning our values with our actions, refining our character, and embracing a growth mindset. This inner transformation is not just about self-improvement but also about empowering oneself to become an agent of change in the external world.
The principle of looking inward resonates with the ancient wisdom of various philosophies and religions. For instance, the Delphic maxim “Know thyself” underscores the importance of self-awareness as the foundation of knowledge and virtue. Similarly, in Eastern philosophies such as Buddhism, the idea of inner change is central to achieving enlightenment and thus affecting the world positively.
The process of looking inward requires a deep and often uncomfortable level of honesty. It mandates a pause from the constant noise and distractions of our external environment to reflect on who we are and who we want to be. This reflection is not a one-time event but a continuous practice. It involves recognizing our biases, our triggers, and the narratives we tell ourselves that shape our reactions and interactions with the world.
Moreover, inward change necessitates the adoption of responsibility. It’s easier to attribute the state of our lives to external factors — to blame circumstances, other people, or society. While these do play a role, true agency is realized when we acknowledge our power in contributing to these circumstances and in crafting our responses. This empowerment is liberating but challenging, as it places the onus of change on the individual.
As we engage in this internal work, the effects begin to ripple outward. Self-discipline cultivates habits that lead to improved health and productivity. Emotional intelligence enhances relationships and social dynamics. Critical thinking and openness to learning shape more informed and empathetic communities. When we transform ourselves, we set a precedent and become exemplars of the change we wish to see, often inspiring others to embark on their journeys of self-transformation.
This inward-outward dynamic is also vital in leadership. Leaders who have engaged in deep introspective work are more likely to lead by example, with integrity and authenticity. They create trust and foster environments where change can flourish. A leader’s internal clarity and conviction can empower and mobilize others towards a shared vision, thus effecting widespread change.
However, it is crucial to note that looking inward is not about perfectionism or self-absorption. It is not an inward gaze that ignores the plight of others or the need for external action. Instead, it’s a balanced approach where self-awareness informs and guides how we interact with the world. It’s about being proactive rather than reactive, about being grounded in one’s core while remaining open to the world.
In today’s society, the call to look inward is particularly pertinent. The world faces complex challenges that require collective action—climate change, social injustice, political polarization, and more. These are not issues that can be resolved by merely changing systems or policies; they require changing human behaviour and mindset. When individuals begin the work of changing from within, they contribute to a collective consciousness that prioritizes the greater good over narrow self-interest.
To catalyze external change, it is therefore indispensable to start with the self. The inward journey may begin with questions like: How do my actions contribute to the current state of the world? What prejudices and assumptions do I hold that might perpetuate specific problems? How can I become more mindful and intentional in my daily life? By answering these, we start a transformation that echoes beyond the self.
“Look Inward to Achieve Outward” is a timeless adage that invites us to become the catalysts for the change we desire in the world. This inward journey is not a selfish endeavour but a necessary prelude to meaningful and sustainable change. It’s about equipping ourselves with the wisdom, strength, and integrity to contribute positively to the world. Actual progress, therefore, begins not with a call to arms but with a call to self—a revolution from within that precedes and predicates the revolution without.
Until next week, where will you start searching?
G
