How often do you practice what you preach?
It’s a question that reminds me of a profound story from the Indian spiritual context involving the revered guru, Paramhansa Yogananda.
Once, a disciple approached Paramhansa, seeking guidance on overcoming a personal flaw. Instead of offering immediate advice, Paramhansa chose to first embody the change he wished to see in his disciple. He spent a week
introspecting and ensuring his own actions were in perfect alignment with his teachings. Only then did he gently guide his disciple towards transformation, demonstrating the power of leading by example.
This story beautifully illustrates the essence of true leadership and personal integrity. Here’s how we can apply this timeless wisdom in our professional lives:
▪️ Self-Reflection: Regularly evaluate your actions against your advice.
▪️ Consistency: Strive for alignment between your words and deeds.
▪️ Continuous Learning: Embrace growth and learning as lifelong journeys.
▪️ Feedback: Actively seek and thoughtfully consider feedback on your behavior.
▪️ Lead by Example: Be the embodiment of the principles you advocate for.
Before guiding others, ensuring our own practices reflect our teachings not only enhances our credibility but also fosters a culture of authenticity and mutual respect. It’s about being the change we wish to see in our teams and organizations.
