The 365 Commitment

Day 57 – Habits of Mind

81 pushups today.  30 pullups tomorrow.   Not very impressive when compared to many other people. That’s the problem with comparing yourself to other people, it’s depressing.  It seems to lead to a number of bad outcomes, it can breed resentment, or jealousy, or self-loathing.  Not good.  On the other end, it can lead to arrogance, or guilt, or complacence, or sycophantic worship, or pedestal placing. None of these are good either.  So there seems to be many pitfalls associated  with this habit of mind..

But, fortunately, I have learned two rules that when combined provide a great alternative:  1) The key to real progress is incremental improvement, and 2) do not compare myself to other people, but to who I was yesterday.  By this calculus, my current level of performance begins to look pretty good, I can derive a pretty good feeling. Following these two rules can become a habit of mind, just as comparing myself to others. Habits of mind define experience.

How we choose to view things makes all the difference.  What otherwise would depress me, or lead me to fall into the pit, can just as easily sustain me or provide motivation and gratification.  Weird.  Life really is a mind game sometimes.

Pursue incremental improvement and compare yourself only to who you were yesterday.  Following these two simple rules and enjoy the positive outcomes.  They lead you to actual practical repeatable respectable improvement and growth.  They lead to self-discipline, self-respect. All good stuff!   All things we want more of.

Ben Wagner (63)

Member 365 Commitment

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Share the Post:

Recent Blogs

Day 296 – Our Cyclical Nature

This article explores the idea that human physiology and mood patterns are deeply influenced by ancient evolutionary cycles, similar to a bear’s hibernation and feasting. It suggests that modern life creates a mismatch with these ingrained rhythms, leading to struggles like seasonal mood changes. The author proposes acknowledging and understanding these natural ebbs and flows for a more harmonious life.

Read More

Day 295 – Don’t Give Up on Us

This piece offers encouragement to those who consistently choose goodness despite human flaws like lying, cheating, and selfishness. It acknowledges the ingratitude and disappointment they may face but emphasizes their crucial role in preventing humanity’s moral collapse. The author expresses gratitude and admiration for their unwavering mercy and hope, urging them not to give up.

Read More

Day 294 – Heaping on Value

This article explores the concept of value proposition, emphasizing that value is subjective and deeply personal. It highlights the importance of understanding individual needs and tailoring communication to resonate with them, suggesting a strategic approach of starting with a succinct description to gauge initial reactions and refine subsequent communication.

Read More

Day 293 – For What It’s Worth

This piece explores the common phrase “for what it’s worth,” examining its linguistic function as a humble preface to opinions or information. It delves into the phrase’s historical origins, tracing its use back to the 1830s, and its popularization through Buffalo Springfield’s 1966 hit song, “For What It’s Worth (Stop, Hey What’s That Sound).” The article concludes by highlighting the phrase’s role in fostering modest and open communication.

Read More
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x