Here’s a riddle: what’s the one problem you can solve that will make solving all other problems easier?
Why spend a lifetime fixing others when the most impactful project—yourself—is right in front of you? Welcome to the paradox of self-improvement: the first step to changing the world is changing yourself. I’ve struggled daily with feeling good about myself, contending with constant nagging doubts and feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. We often design solutions to other people’s problems while neglecting the pain points in our own lives.
We aspire to climb corporate ladders, but we can't even manage climbing into bed at a reasonable hour.
We talk about networking, yet struggle with maintaining meaningful relationships in our personal lives.
We aim for five-star reviews, yet fail to review our own well-being and mental health.
We strive to be influencers in our field, but can't influence our own negative thought patterns.
We’re fascinated by artificial intelligence but pay little attention to our natural intelligence—our intuition and emotional wisdom.
You get the message…
Mind you, I'm not suggesting we shouldn't discuss these topics. However, it's detrimental to overlook the problems in our lives. By crafting a solution for ourselves, we inherently devise solutions for others.
Here's an example. I’ve had a successful career and accumulated enough savings to live comfortably for several years without working. Yet, I was constantly anxious. What plagued me? Fears that I wasn’t good enough, that I’d never find happiness, or that I wouldn't amass sufficient wealth to care for my loved ones. This anxiety and lack of self-confidence and self-love consumed me.
Did you know that successful individuals are unlikely to be any happier than the average person? The goals you're pursuing won't necessarily guarantee your contentment. Does this imply you shouldn't strive for success? Of course not. However, it does highlight the importance of addressing the root causes of your unhappiness, feelings of unworthiness, or other internal struggles – and doing so promptly.
So, how did I address my lack of self-love? Passionate about mental well-being, I completed a course on mental health issues and initiated a challenge called “100 Days of Self-Love” on LinkedIn. This was my approach to addressing a personal problem that I suspected many others also grapple with. I’m committed to resolving my issues. Whether you choose to do this privately or publicly is up to you. I opt for the latter to hold myself accountable and possibly assist even a handful of individuals who confront challenges similar to mine.
My central message? Address your own pain points. Be candid about the challenges you encounter. In doing so, you may not only find solutions for yourself but also support others on their journeys.
What do you think? What’s the one problem you could solve that can make solving all other problems easier?
Join me on Linkedin for 100 days of self-love:
Every day, we’ll share insights to elevate your self-worth, self-esteem, confidence, and other vital self-beliefs. We challenge you to put yourself at the heart of your pursuit of personal happiness. Join, follow and thrive. #100DaysOfSelfLove.
