One of my favorite authors, Matthew
Kelly, for whom I’ve referenced in several past posts, often talks about
striving to be a better version of yourself. This is certainly not a new
concept nor a concept or phrase that Matthew coined, rather this is a time
tested personal methodology. I call it a methodology, even though that may be a
slight misuse of the word, because a methodology is a practice or a management
technique. And, in my humble opinion, striving to be a better version of
yourself is just that, a personal management methodology.
As I wrapped up 2017 and went into 2018
I had the best of intentions to grow my business, do a better job at attending
church on a more consistent basis, work on my marriage and fathering skills,
engage my family and friends more, and enhance my overall health through
nutritional and exercise practices.
Now I begin 2019 having accomplished
many of my goals, coming close with some, and completely missing the mark on a
few others. My business grew at a slower pace than anticipated due to a very
poor hiring decision that I take full responsibility. While I did turn the ship
around, I was at the helm nonetheless, and now must make up for this oversight.
My relationship with my wife and children is stronger, in part because my kids
are getting older, and my wife and I are headed toward our 20-year wedding
anniversary. I tried very hard not to make excuses for engaging friends and
family, even when I was having long weeks. And, while I still have a way to go
with my personal health plan, I am further along than anticipated.
I’m sharing this update because, as
Matthew Kelly says, you can never stop working on becoming a better version of
yourself. Waking early each morning I have a personal conversation with myself.
I review who I was and what I did yesterday; and, I ponder on the day ahead in
terms of who I want to be and what I need to do. In each statement I seek to be
a better version of myself.
Asking questions and being 100% honest
with my answers is the key. Did I do the right thing for myself or my family or
my business? Was I being fair to the person I was engaged with in conversation,
negotiation or debate? Am I following a moral compass and being ethical? Am I
acting in a way that is in the best interest of all involved? Was I respectful?
My goals for 2019 may seem in many ways
like a repeat from 2018, but in an effort to commit myself to becoming a better
version of myself on a daily, weekly, monthly and annual basis, I must set
these goals in writing for all to see and hold myself accountable. In order to
be a better version of myself I will grow my company both in terms of revenue
and profitability. I will assist my management team in hiring the most
qualified and culturally fitting candidates. I will strive to add new clients
that share my company’s outlook and values.
On a personal level I will continue to
work on my personal relationships including with my wife, kids, friends and
family. I will strive to turn the other cheek when someone insults me. I will
look for the good in others and not their own shortcomings – because no one is
perfect – especially me. And, I continue my commitment toward improved health
through diet-nutritional management and planning, as well as daily exercise.
Becoming a better version of myself is
not easy and the job is never done. A daily grind, so-to-speak, and a challenge
I am certainly up for. I encourage all of those around me to become better
versions of themselves, and through this post I encourage you to do the same.
Read Matthew Kelly if you need guidance in this area. He will not disappoint.