“One does not need a silver plate; encrusted and embossed in solid gold; but we should not believe the lack of silver and gold to be proof of the simple life.” – Seneca

Whenever we start a new process, try to add a new dimension to our lives, or find a new way of thinking about the world we live in, we tend to embrace it all the way in the beginning. We tell our friends about it, it creeps into our conversation, and the worse part, we try to convince others to join us. By telling them to join us.

We don’t even know the full extent of the idea we are trying to force onto our friends and loved ones when we start. We just know that this diet, this workout, this political position is the absolute right one for them and they have to try it out.

But that is not how meaningful change happens. That is why we can’t really be forced to believe things, or even really to adopt any change. Sure we might go through the motions if we are sufficiently forced but real, meaningful change has to happen organically.

And we do that best by setting the example. Keeping our mouths shut about the changes we are making in our lives and letting the changes themselves speak for us. If we are making the right choices, the changes we are making will demand respect and admiration. This eventually leads to initiation and finally, the most important part, personalization.

Let’s become someone worth imitating.

virtus fortis vocat