Since the beginning of time, scientists have proved their findings; priests have preached their sermons; philosophers have made their point. What I’m trying to say is there’s nothing new under the sun. The same advice Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle had for the people back in B.C. is still relevant in 2023.
Do we really change after time? I’m starting to believe maybe only physically. And that’s a maybe.
Why this thought? Because I was reading through some of the things I’ve written in Not Another Inspirational Quote, and thought about how often we tell ourselves and others the same affirmations in hopes that it will change or improve our journey. Yet, only a few people put wisdom lived by others into practice. I can see why.
I’m a major believer and advocate of “see for yourself and then make your own conclusions.” It’s true that feedback and constructive criticism works, as I’ve mentioned in my books before. But nothing works as good as hands-on and vision. You could read a million affirmative quotes on the internet and you might feel empowered and inspired, but — and as much as I love words — I’ll be the first to say that the feeling is short-lived.
You’ll need constant stimulation; you’ll need to see the words over and over again because the human brain is tricky. You’ll need reminders to keep your eyes on the prize. That’s why not all the people who are reposting about staying positive and “doing great things in life” aren’t actually doing sh*t with their lives. Social media doesn’t help, I get it. It’s all a show.
But all this is just to say:
don’t just read quotes, apply. Don’t just wish upon a star, chase. Don’t just dream, work. Don’t just pray, act.
Believe me when I say I’m practicing what I preach on this. It’s insane what I’ve endured this year in the name of pursuing happiness. Would I change anything? Probably not because the alternative is not an option.
So go ahead and keep getting motivated by other people’s experiences and words, but don’t forget to maybe try them for yourself. And for the record, there’s nothing wrong with loving words; you never know what messages hide between the lines.
