In most instances, the objective answer is, “yes.”
I can be better at understanding and acknowledging my biases.
I can be better at listening to others.
I can be better at my job from a technical standpoint.
I can be better with staying consistent with productive habits and minimizing unproductive ones.
I can be better. . .
But, that isn’t always the most helpful question to ask ourselves.
We might not like the way the question evokes a sense of lack or makes us feel bad about ourselves in some important way. Or, we might, justifiably, assess that the behavior of others could be better in a particular situation.
Instead,
“Am I willing to focus myself more often on the areas where I have the most control?” is a far more helpful question.
This question focuses us on what we can most reliably change, control, or influence. Typically, that means our own thinking, motivations, and behavior.
When we answer that question affirmingly, we will become better. We will feel better.
And, so will the people and circumstances about which we care most.
