“It is difficult to inspire others to accomplish what you haven’t been willing to try” – wise words indeed. Imagine, for instance, trying to encourage someone you know to live his/her dream of moving abroad when you have spent your own life saying that you would like to do just that but have never plucked up the courage. Wouldn’t that individual take your own lack of action as an indication of how daunting or even ill-advised such a move might be? And how would a friend or family member take it if you were to start advising him/her to go for that promotion when you yourself have let your self-confidence hold you back from doing the same?
It is impossible to truly inspire other people if your words do not come from a place of authenticity and experience. It is impossible to instill in them the drive and enthusiasm needed to make bold moves in life if you are not fired up by your own personal feelings and understanding.
Next time you find yourself trying to inspire a friend, family member or colleague to do something that you yourself have not been willing to try, ask yourself what has stopped you. Whatever rationale you use to convince others to move ahead and accomplish great things in their lives, use it on yourself. Life is too short to hold back, and “I wish” is just the saddest phrase for anyone to utter on his/her deathbed.
Wish your children would take up a new sport, hobby, or musical instrument? Is your own lack of courage holding them back?
[Article first appeared in the November 2010 issue of Family Times, published monthly by Play-a-Round Golf.]
