Chapter 1: Understanding Your Character

As we navigate through life, each day seems to pass rapidly. On April 12, 2022, I attended a significant event hosted by the Lifebook Community, focusing on the theme of Character. This experience made me reflect on the importance of developing a commendable character. I invite you to ponder: Who serves as your character role model, and what qualities do you admire in them?

Setting Goals vs. Achieving Goals

To maximize our potential, executing our goals is far more crucial than merely setting them, as Divyata Dewan aptly points out. Goals mark a destination, but it’s through habits that we can surpass those targets.

For example, in 2020, I aimed to improve my physical appearance and set a goal to lose 10 pounds over five months—two pounds each month. The real challenge arose during the execution phase, where I cultivated habits that aligned with my goal. I exercised daily, monitored my nutrition diligently, and maintained an active lifestyle with an early bedtime. Remarkably, I exceeded my initial goal within just 3.5 to 4 months. Isn’t that incredible?

This illustrates the transformative power of habit formation. How dedicated are you to maintaining your daily routines? It serves as a vital reminder to cultivate habits that propel us toward our aspirations. As James Clear states in Atomic Habits, “We do not rise to the level of our goals; we fall to the level of our habits.”

Identifying the Right Habits

How can one determine if they are adopting beneficial habits? Envision your future self as the person you aspire to be.

Imagine wanting to shed some weight; visualize yourself in that dream outfit, enjoying meals without concern, and achieving that ideal physique. The ability to visualize your future self is a powerful tool.

Identity and Character Development

Who are you? This question evokes a thought from Aristotle: “You are what you repeatedly do.” What is the one activity that defines you? Our beliefs shape our actions, and those actions ultimately define our identity.

The brain's primary function is to ensure our safety; it thrives on predictability and comfort. Thus, our past experiences often influence our present behavior, sometimes constraining us. Are you allowing your past to define you?

To evolve, we must shift our focus from our past identity to our envisioned future self. Start with character—what are you becoming?

The Essence of Character

Consider this: If you lost everything, what remains? Your character is the essence of who you are. Successful individuals do not dwell on their past; they embrace their future selves, actively constructing their identity.

Living in the Present

Throughout life, we often reside in mental time zones. Many of us are stuck in the past, which hampers our present experiences and future potential. This mindset can limit our growth.

Break free from these constraints. Embrace the present moment, and realize that your imagination holds the key to your future. You can embody future happiness, discipline, and integrity right now.

Becoming Your Own Best Friend

Your best friend should be yourself—specifically, your future self. The most generous act you can undertake is to forge a friendship with the person you aspire to be.

Ask yourself, “How can I emulate my role model?” If you don’t consciously decide who you want to become, you risk becoming someone by default.

Setting Standards for Growth

To honor your future self, reflect on the standards you need to adopt or abandon today. The right standards foster habits that create positive rituals.

What actions can you take to respect your future self? Define who you wish to be and take steps to honor that vision.

Shifting Perspectives

To truly live as your future self, adjust your mindset to align with your goals. My writing journey has been enriched by supportive friends who have helped me reshape my self-perception.

The first video, Who are You Becoming?, offers insights into self-discovery and transformation.

The second video, Jim Rohn - What Are You Becoming, further delves into the importance of character and identity.

In closing, your journey of self-discovery is just beginning. Embrace the process, and strive to become the person you envision. Subscribe to my Medium page for weekly insights and inspiration.