Lean Quote: Act the Way You’d Like to Be and Soon You’ll be the Way You Act

On Fridays I will post a Lean related Quote. Throughout our lifetimes many people touch our lives and leave us with words of wisdom. These can both be a source of new learning and also a point to pause and reflect upon lessons we have learned. Within Lean active learning is an important aspect on this journey because without learning we can not improve.

"Act the way you’d like to be and soon you’ll be the way you act."   —  Bob Dylan

The saying, “Act the way you’d like to be and soon you’ll be the way you act,” encapsulates the idea that our actions have a profound impact on shaping our identity and character. It implies that by consciously choosing to behave in a certain manner, we can gradually transform ourselves into the person we aspire to become. This concept holds great significance as it emphasizes the power of our actions in shaping our lives.

Let’s try to explore the meaning behind this statement and delve into how acting in alignment with our desired self can lead to personal growth and positive transformation.

The Power of Intention

Setting intentions involves clearly defining your purpose and consciously committing to a desired outcome. It's more than just setting a goal; it's about aligning your thoughts and actions with your deepest values and aspirations. Research suggests that setting specific, challenging, and achievable goals, driven by clear intentions, increases motivation and performance. Visualization, mentally picturing yourself successfully achieving your goals, works in tandem with intention to reinforce your commitment and create a clear mental image of your desired outcome.

The Role of Consistency

Consistency is the cornerstone of success and self-improvement. It involves showing up and putting in consistent effort over time, even when immediate results aren't apparent. Small, consistent steps build momentum and reinforce positive behaviors, making them easier to maintain and leading to positive outcomes. Consistency helps establish habits, improves performance, enhances focus, and builds confidence. Regularly tracking progress and celebrating small wins along the way can help maintain momentum and reinforce motivation.

The Influence of Environment

Your environment plays a profound role in shaping your thoughts, behaviors, and attitudes. The physical spaces you inhabit, your social circles, the media you consume, and even the cultural and economic contexts you experience all contribute to your mindset and personal growth.

While you may not be able to control every aspect of your environment, you can make conscious choices to shape it in ways that foster your personal growth. This includes curating your media consumption, building positive social circles, investing in education, and improving your physical spaces.

Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

Limiting beliefs are negative thoughts about yourself, others, or the world that can hinder your personal and professional growth. These beliefs often stem from past experiences or criticisms and can manifest as excuses that prevent individuals from embracing motivation and a growth mindset.

Acting the way we’d like to be not only impacts our own personal growth but also has a ripple effect on those around us. Our actions can inspire and influence others, creating a positive chain reaction. When we act in alignment with our desired self, we become a living example of the change we want to see in the world. Others may be inspired by our actions and strive to emulate them, leading to a collective transformation.

By consciously aligning our behavior with our desired self, we can shape our identity, overcome limiting beliefs, and inspire positive change in ourselves and others. It emphasizes the importance of intention, consistency, and surrounding ourselves with the right environment. Ultimately, this approach allows us to evolve into the best version of ourselves and create a life that reflects our true aspirations.