Balance Your Competence With Character
This might be the key to a more fulfilling life. Constantly showcasing your skills without balance can make you appear arrogant or out of touch, leading others to misunderstand your intentions.
Wisdom demands that you balance your light with salt.
(For context, see previous post on how you can change the world as salt and light).
It is easy to see the value in being a trailblazer and pacesetter. That is a function of light; and here is why.
Light is a metaphor for competence. The more we know, the brighter our minds shine.
Great thinkers are great because they are bright individuals.
Like a lighthouse on a cloudy night, competence shines a beacon of hope through the fog of confusion.
It cuts through complexity, illuminates the right path, and guides others with purpose.
But how does one cultivate this light?
It starts by acknowledging the darkness. Embrace the fear and uncertainty, and recognize that growth can only occur beyond the comfort zone.
But constantly radiating your light or leading in competence can be exhausting, both for you and those around you.
That is why it is important to balance your light with salt.
Salt is a metaphor for character.
Too little, and you're bland.
Too much, and you're overpowering.
But the right amount would bring balance by:
Providing contrast
Enhancing flavor
Preserving systems
In life, salt can take many forms:
Honest feedback
Honest work ethic
Pouring into others
When you add a bit of ‘your’ salt, you bring balance to your life and relationships.
Providing contrast allows for a more realistic view of life, making your moments of light even more meaningful.
Enhancing flavor through genuine interactions and contributions enriches your experiences and those of others around you.
Preserving systems ensures that your energy and enthusiasm remain sustainable over time.
While embracing your competence is essential, relying solely on it can lead to issues.
Constantly showcasing your skills without balance can make you appear arrogant or out of touch, leading others to misunderstand your intentions.
People might see you as insincere or dismissive of real challenges.
Always focusing on competence can leave you drained, out of touch, and unable to sustain your energy or genuinely connect with others.
However, acknowledging and addressing challenges with character can help you grow and strengthen your relationships.
So, embrace your competence and sprinkle a little character. It may just be the key to a more fulfilling life.