We as human beings are all walking forms of potential. Whether we realize it or not, we are more capable than we imagine, and especially so when we come together to create something we can’t do by our lonesome.

I recently talked to my friend about opening up and for him to find different social groups so as to expand his social circle. He felt like he was being stagnant and hasn’t had too much growth, but I helped remind him that he had an amazing year, and he has been through a lot, from balancing school, multiple jobs, death of a family member, etc.

It made me think again about how we are much more capable of things than we think we are. For him, when the going got rough, he did everything he coiuld do to provide for his family and help them in anyway he could. He sold possessions he had that he treasured for the betterment of his family. He’s awkward, and not the best in social situations, but he is willing to do what needs to be done. He’s a good guy, and for what he’s done, he will always have my respect.

I realized recently that in many conversations, I feel the need to give my 2 cents. Sometimes this is good, but like all things, balance. I can talk too much and also too little. I need to be quiet when the subject matter is something I know little about. As I read Dale Carnegies book on how to meet friends and influence people, it reminds me of these common sense things, that people seem to forget all too often.

Another things I want to get more in touch with is the youthful curiosity of my past. Maybe youthful isn’t the right word, but I remember a time when I was more open-minded and willing to try new experiences. Yes, I too need to remind myself that I’ve done a lot this year and been through a lot. But as I told my friends yesterday, it’s difficult for me to be happy with where I am. I’m constantly stressed about wanting to improve, which helps me to reach my goals, but I need time to sit and relax and pat myself on the back as well.

Where we are at this moment is both the only place we will be at this time, and all we are guaranteed is the present moment. It’s a valuable skill to be happy in the present and it’s something I can continue to foster through meditation, journaling, exercise, etc.

I’m growing more confident in myself, and am happy to see others doing the same. A close friend of mine seems to be doing very well and I can see the change in his mannerisms in a positive way, and I’m genuinely happy for him. I realized I want to see my friends succeed, and I no longer compare myself to them as much as I used to. I’m competing with myself, and as I begin to allow myself to BE myself, however weird I may be, it gives others permission to do the same. I feel the judgement sometimes, but I realize that the alternative is an existence that is untrue to myself, it’s not a truthful way of living.