Life is all about measuring up. But, measuring up to what, you may ask.
Before I answer that, let’s delve a little deeper into the concept of measuring up.
Growing up and living in a world that is always in a constant mode of comparative analysis, measuring up is second nature to everyone whether consciously acknowledged or not. Better education, better house, better car, better job, better salary, pursuit of a better life, the list goes on. Better than who? Your peers, neighbors, cousins or friends, it could be anyone. But, the constant analysis – paralysis continues.
Can it be avoided? Can you peel yourself away from the society you live in and try to stay unique as this one person who is above all this. Probably a very difficult task and for that matter, might not be really worth the effort at all. In pursuit of that distinction, you may end up alienating yourself in the community you need to live within. Not to say that the competitive streak is bad, it can actually be pretty healthy for the community as a whole and can help steer it progressively.
However, a healthy aspect of measuring up is not comparison with those around you although it is the most visible undercurrent. It is about measuring up to your own self, day in and day out. It is about moving from point A to point B. It is about you, moving in a progressive direction, toward a better you!
Look to measure up to a better self. Look to be a better you, a compassionate you, a wiser you, a healthier you, a wealthier you, a more successful you. That is the best way to measure up. Once in pursuit of your own betterment, comparative betterment happens by itself. It’s no longer something that has to be constantly pursued or stressed over. In fact, such focus helps you grow and further, facilitates the growth of your relationships as well.
How do you do this? Well, it’s about measuring up, right. So you need to measure your progress over time. Set goals, hold solemn resolutions, pursue and reflect on your progress. Make adjustments and keep at it. Get excited over small accomplishments, share and acknowledge larger milestones by celebrating them with your near and dear. Never stop and remember, don’t let it pass without measuring it. Time has a tendency to pass through like sand between your fingers when not accounted for. And the best way to account for it is by measuring up; for it makes every moment you live worth the while!
Now, tell me, how do you measure up?
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