Show up to Improve, not to Prove
Let's admit it. We've all been there - trying hard to prove ourselves, to be the best, to show everyone we've got what it takes. While it may give us a fleeting sense of satisfaction, Simon Sinek offers an alternative, and perhaps a healthier perspective. He suggests, "Don't show up to prove. Show up to improve." This principle, seemingly simple, is profound, transformative, and encourages us to shift our focus from external validation to internal growth. It's like a tall glass of refreshing lemonade on a hot summer day; it's not the coolness you can see but the refreshment you feel that matters most.
The Prove Vs. Improve Mindset
When we engage in the 'prove' mindset, we're setting ourselves up for a cycle of endless stress. We're running on a treadmill of expectation, constantly trying to meet someone else's idea of 'good enough.' The 'prove' mindset is like an unquenchable thirst, a void we're always trying to fill but never quite succeeding.
On the other hand, the 'improve' mindset focuses on personal growth and learning. Every interaction, every task, every day becomes an opportunity to become better than we were yesterday. When we strive to improve, we shift our attention to our development, becoming more in-tune with our abilities, understanding our strengths and weaknesses, and making strides towards our personal and professional goals.
The Power of the Improve Mindset
Imagine turning up to work every day, not burdened by the need to be the smartest in the room, but excited about what you'll learn and how you'll grow. This is the power of the improve mindset. It unshackles us from the constraints of constant comparison and competition, allowing us to relish our journey of growth.
As Simon Sinek says, "When we're trying to prove ourselves, we're trying to get. When we're trying to improve ourselves, we're trying to give." This perspective shift transforms our motivations and the way we interact with our surroundings.
Put it Into Action
Embracing the 'improve' mindset is not a one-time decision, but a daily commitment. Here's how you can put it into action:
Start your day with intention: Instead of rushing into your tasks, take a few minutes each morning to set an intention for the day. It could be something as simple as, "Today, I want to learn one new thing" or "Today, I will focus on being more patient."
Embrace feedback: View feedback, both positive and negative, as a chance to grow. Instead of getting defensive, try to understand the other person's perspective and use it as a stepping stone to improvement.
Celebrate progress, not perfection: It's easy to get disheartened when we're not perfect. Instead, focus on the progress you're making. Celebrate the small wins and recognize that every step, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction.
Practice mindfulness: Being present in the moment can greatly enhance our ability to improve. When we're fully engaged in what we're doing, we're more likely to notice the details, understand the nuances, and learn from the experience.
So, let's shift gears and start focusing on improving rather than proving. As Simon Sinek wisely suggests, it's about showing up, not showing off. By embracing the improve mindset, we are not only contributing to our personal growth but also fostering an environment that encourages continuous learning and mutual respect.
Embracing the 'improve' mindset opens up a world of possibilities. It allows us to see ourselves not as we are judged by others, but as we can be when we focus on growth and learning. It's a transformative and empowering way to live and work. So, remember, don't show up to prove, show up to improve.
Just like the caterpillar becomes a butterfly, transform yourself daily with the power of improvement. Your future self will thank you. Remember, the goal is not to be better than anyone else, but to be better than you were yesterday. After all, we're all works in progress, constantly learning, evolving, and improving.
That's the Simon Sinek way.