To grow spiritually in a world defined by power, money, and
influence is a Herculean task. Modern conveniences such as electronic
equipments, gadgets, and tools as well as entertainment through television,
magazines, and the web have predisposed us to confine our attention mostly to
physical needs and wants. As a result, our concepts of self-worth and
self-meaning are muddled. How can we strike a balance between the material and
spiritual aspects of our lives?
To grow spiritually is to look inward.
Introspection goes beyond recalling the things that happened in a
day, week, or month. You need to look closely and reflect on your thoughts,
feelings, beliefs, and motivations. Periodically examining your experiences,
the decisions you make, the relationships you have, and the things you engage
in provide useful insights on your life goals, on the good traits you must
sustain and the bad traits you have to discard. Moreover, it gives you clues on
how to act, react, and conduct yourself in the midst of any situation. Like any
skill, introspection can be learned; all it takes is the courage and
willingness to seek the truths that lie within you. Here are some pointers when
you introspect: be objective, be forgiving of yourself, and focus on your areas
for improvement.