Inside Out – A Few Thoughts on Introspection.

: I like to think deeply, reflectively on what goes on in my life. But it’s a sometimes arduous, painful process. For example: when I have any interaction with anyone (business / friend / family) about anything, I try to spend 5-10 minutes AFTER thinking about what just occurred. I reflect on what each side said, did, their motivation, perspectives, commentary, even mannerisms / characteristics / tonalities / inflections / words they use, as well as how they use them. Then, I do the same on my own conduct. Why? Well for me, I want to always question my reality, my objectivity or lack thereof, my positive or negative impact and the outcomes it generates. I want to examine things other people do that really impress or unimpressed me – things they say that captivate or repulse me. Points of views they extol that, perhaps, I’ve never considered, appreciated, or valued. Likewise, I’m trying to examine, understand, appreciate, and respect (and acknowledge) what’s going on behind the scenes of their lives. I’m keenly aware that no two people are ever having the same experience – not even the same conversation when they converse, so I try to reconcile my worldview with theirs. - I want to be better all the time — not just in business but in my humanity, humility, empathy, respect. - I want to grow – intellectually, and in my appreciation for the human condition. - I want to deeply replay in my mind events, actions, and communications I share to determine what I liked about my side’s conduct, and didn’t – and the reciprocal about the other. - I want to stop doing things I realize don’t “become” who I really am… AND improve on my strengths as well as better manage or control my non-strengths. - I want to see how to connect better, communicate better, appreciate better, enjoy better, inspire better – live AND love better – but not just family or spouse love. Love for the human condition and the fact that we are ALL flawed imperfect beings who need to be appreciated for who we ARE – and (most of the time) accepted for who we aren’t. Our world is thrust into a heartbreaking vortex of division, hatred, and polarized lines in the sand. I want to better celebrate people for all they are, all they try to be, and recognize that we’re all at our core, probably scared little children – trying to fake it through our lives – some with more goodness and appeal than others. But in the final analysis – and for me it is an ever-evolving analysis – we should, each and every one of us, want to be continually growing better, however we define the meaning of the word. If you start practicing introspective reflection, I suspect two utterly fascinating and powerful things will occur: First, it’ll be difficult in the beginning because it’s analogous to exercising a muscle for the first time – But, it’ll become easier, more enjoyable and enriching the more we do it. Second – You’ll start seeing yourself in a far different light – both good and perhaps not so good. You might start questioning your beliefs, limitations, values. You’ll definitely start improving things like your listening skills and your connection with one another. You’ll improve communication and your empathetic respect towards one another. At least that’s what’s happening when I do it. I believe that with the exception of a few bad apples in our world – most people are fundamentally good. Most deserve to be treated with dignity, respect and made to feel relevant. That’s my thought for today. Jay [Unsubscribe]( The Abraham Group 24050 Madison St., #214 Torrance, California 90505 United States