Whatever we believe to be a personal or physical shortcoming or weakness may actually be a source of strength. A simple example of this: When health problems arise, we all tend to improve our actions, trying to figure out what we need to do to get better. (When I get sick, I swear I’ll never eat another cookie or miss a workout again!) Conversely, when we’re feeling healthy, we might be more inclined to burn the proverbial candle thinking that we can handle anything, when maybe we need to consider a little more balance. 

Awareness of any weaknesses is the first step to becoming stronger. Simply being aware of a shortcoming is great because it can serve as a way we whisper to ourselves: “I can work to improve this somehow.” 

I know many people in their 70s, 80s and 90s who are still mulling over what they need to learn about themselves or something that they still want to accomplish or improve at. They are educating themselves to overcome weaknesses they think they have. Seen in the right perspective, it’s our awareness that can trigger the urge for self-education and new efforts that result in our growth and improvement. Each time we challenge ourselves, we’ve assured our growth. 

How can you challenge yourself to grow today?