The urge for self improvement is an inherent quality in human nature, whether this is related to physical achievements, emotional satisfactions or mental status. Although we may try to compare ourselves with others it is difficult except that we may seem to be ‘better’ than some, and yet may fall short of others known to us. However, regarding the quality of other minds and intellects any comparison is futile beyond any comparison we may be able to assess in exchanging information regarding a common interest or study.
Unless we have a basis for our values about the quality of thought, by association with a mentor, a spiritual guide, a hero or heroine given to us in early education or in childhood, or have a close associate or leader in our intellectual field we must rely upon what we know of the admirable quality thoughts of others through reading and impersonal communication.
So it is vitally important to have our own idea as to what constitutes our ideal of the healthy human mind and quality thought processes. This will act as a permanent internal reference when seeking to improve our own quality and capacities of thinking accordingly.
Many of us consolidate our values regarding quality thought by considering the factors we do not wish to be incorporated. The negatives sometimes stimulate our perception of the positive qualities that we envisage in the ideal mind. We would not want, for instance, weakness of concentration, lack of honesty, aberrations of any kind of emotion or violent thought. This would help us to establish the importance of self will, truthfulness, kindness and humility as qualities to be included in our concept. From this approach, which serves as a sort of blueprint for our own efforts, we can formulate the admirable qualities we seek to emulate and to pattern our self discipline appropriately.
There are many existent programmes focussed upon self improvement and mental training regarding business issues and material success and it has become fashionable to adhere to one or another. However, studying a number of different systems can be confusing so it is best to find a simple system that ‘clicks’ or appeals to you, and the simpler the better. You will soon be able to assess its value, not by understanding the theory, but by the results of its practical application. The quality systems and successful methods are usually seen to be balanced between aspiration and practicality.
Sally Janssen’s wonderful book “Mental Fitness: A simple Self-Help Guide”, offers simple and timely solutions. Read more….
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