Some stories we tell ourselves are about us:
- I’m smart (or not as much as I’d like to be);
- I’m athletic (or not as much as I’d like to be);
- I’m capable (or not as much as I’d like to be);
- I’m in shape (or not as much as I’d like to be).
Some stories we tell ourselves are about how we interact with others:
- I’m curious (or not as much as I’d like to be);
- I’m helpful (or not as much as I’d like to be);
- I’m generous (or not as much as I’d like to be);
- I’m kind (or not as much as I’d like to be).
Wisdom and maturity occur when the stories we tell ourselves focus more on how we interact with others and less on ourselves.
“It’s not about me,” is more than a bumper sticker phrase.
It’s the precept leading to a well-lived life.