From Me, Myself, and I

Have you ever noticed that many people use the words Me, Myself, and I much more than You, Yourself, and Your?

I recently discovered that in myself. When analyzing my writing, especially emails to others, the pattern became clear to me. What did this say about my character? Was I self-obsessed?

How much eye did I have for others if I was constantly referring to myself? Slowly it started dawning on me that I was very self-focused. 

Then I became aware of how my self-obsession was negatively impacting me and the people in my environment too. I was so busy focusing on myself that I often forgot about others. It was also making me anxious because I got stuck in my own little world.

The more you focus on yourself, it seems, the more you start circling around in your own mind. You might tell yourself that you are becoming more self-aware, but actually, you are losing awareness. Your thoughts turn into loops where you are constantly recycling the same concepts without new insights.

The lack of input from others soon puts you into a delusional state. You only know your thoughts and think they must be true since nothing is opposing them. A phenomenon also known as tunnel vision.

Of course, practicing self-reflection can benefit all of us. But it is crucial to maintain a healthy balance. Switch between monitoring yourself and asking for feedback from others while constantly comparing your perception with perspectives from other people.

Lately, I have been working on finding a healthier balance between Me, Myself, and I; and You, Yourself, and Your. In fact, to really change my mindset, I am considering doing a challenge. What if I only allow myself to use the words You, Yourself, and Your instead of Me, Myself, and I?

Sure, I am highly likely to slip up numerous times. But consciously telling my brain to stop using those three little words for a day will make me painfully aware of how self-obsessed I am. At the same time, my focus will slowly shift to the people around me.

Directing our focus consciously can be a great trick in altering our mindset.

What do you think? Would you try this method for yourself? I would love to hear your thoughts on the subject of mindset – especially how we perceive others and ourselves.

It is time to break the little bubble I have been living in and have an eye for others. Life is too short to live it only for myself.

Behind every face, there is a story. When we are focused only on ourselves, we will miss out on all the wonderful stories of the people around us. To be truly interested in each other is a gift. As human beings, we are inclined to focus only on ourselves but when we make an effort to look outward, a whole new, wondrous world opens up to us.

Are you ready to discover it?

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Thank YOU for reading! I'm glad you took some of your precious time to read some of my work. A like and comment are more than welcome and highly appreciated.

I'd also like to take a moment to recommend a wonderful story I read the other day from another writer. Feel free to spread the (kind) word:

Are you looking for a listening ear or a word of advice? You can write me a personal message on my X (formerly Twitter) account. Or send me an email instead. I'm looking forward to getting to know you! We all have a story to tell.