According to dictionary.com, avatar has three meanings:
1. Hindu Mythology. the descent of a deity to the earth in an incarnate form or some manifest shape; the incarnation of a god.2. an embodiment or personification, as of a principle, attitude, or view of life.
3. Computers. a graphical image that represents a person, as on the Internet.
The one we hear the most about lately is definition #3. Which, on some days, seems mighty attractive. But I am fond of definition #2. Starting today, I intend to be an avatar of truth. Sounds pretty heavy, huh? Well, I've come up with an Easy Three-Step Plan.
Step 1: Stop worrying about what other people think. A wise woman once told me, "No one around you will be happy if you are not happy." If I can make myself happy, then my happiness will flow out to all around me. I can change the world if I can change myself.
Step 2: Focus. As a chronic sufferer of SOS (Shiny Object Syndrome), I am challenged by my high levels of distractibility. I promise myself to be vigilant about focusing on only those tasks that clearly move me forward toward my goals, and avoid anything that drags me off course. Goodbye to being an early adopter, at least for this year.
Step 3: Embrace what is. I have wasted way too much time thinking about, and chasing after, what could or should be. I have skills and talents that I can use NOW, that have significant value and can help many people improve their lives, careers and organizations. Of course I can improve; however, improvements on top of a shaky foundation will not hold.
So while my avatar is not ten feet tall and blue, I think that it will turn out pretty cool anyway. What would your avatar look like?
Comments