Don't be default
Imagine yourself as a brand-new smartphone, fresh out of the box, sleek and elegant. That first impression? It’s all about the default setup with pre-installed apps, features, and settings that come standard. For a smartphone, those defaults might be tricky to uninstall, but with a little research and practice, it’s doable. The same goes for us.
We arrive in this world pre-loaded with our own “default settings” like beliefs, family values, religious ideas, and notions of right and wrong. These vary from person to person, shaped by where we come from and who raises us. For some, like the elderly, these defaults feel comfortable, perfectly suited to their needs. But for others, they can feel stifling, like an outdated operating system begging for an upgrade.
Now, don’t get me wrong this isn’t just about smartphones. It’s a metaphor for us. We’re born with these ingrained settings, but here’s the point:
They don’t have to be permanent. If something in your life whether it’s a belief, a value, or a habit and no longer fits, you have the power to change it.
Sure, the road to change can be complex and tough. It might take soul-searching, tough conversations, or stepping out of your comfort zone. But just like tweaking a phone to match your style, you can reshape yourself to reflect who you want to be.
The world around us is always shifting. New ideas, new challenges, new possibilities. So why stay stuck on default? Embrace the messiness of growth, uninstall what holds you back, and customize your life.