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If you are a regular reader of this column, then you likely already have a clear idea of what being a hero entails. Above all, what we are concerned with here is the adoption of certain key characteristics. Mostly it is a matter of developing the proper mindset necessary to become an everyday hero in today’s world.
However, every now and then it’s important to step back and take stock of where you are in three distinct areas: the mind, the body, and possessions. These serve as a quick barometer you can you to assess your state of being. When you’re feeling uneasy, uncertain, or upset on a consistent basis, that means it’s time for a check-up!
Mind
The mind is the foundational aspect of the everyday hero, and the first place you should start when doing a self check-up. Everything on this blog is centered around changing your mindset, so treat the health of your mind as a vital task.
However, it is not just about random “reality checks.” You want to make sure you are looking after your mind on a daily basis, taking time to de-stress and focus on well-being. This can come in many forms: meditation, visualization, taking time to decompress with friends, and so on.
Mental health is an important yet drastically overlooked issue for people (especially men) the world over. The major mistake most people make is thinking mental health is someone else’s problem. The fact is, we all need to be taking care of our mental health at all times.
You must approach mental health in exactly the same way you do your physical health. It is only by taking a proactive approach that you can be sure of your ongoing mental fortitude. Do whatever is most effective for you when it comes to reducing stress and tension in your daily life, as this—combined with visits to mental health professionals as needed—helps to keep issues like depression at bay.
Body
It’s shocking just how easily most modern people forget about the importance of their bodies. The body is what carries you through life, and without it even your precious mind is worthless. I’m not just talking about losing weight; there are many people who are thin that are drastically out of shape. What I’m talking about is a commitment to treating your body well consistently over time.
Just as paying consistent attention to your mind is important, your body must also have your regular attention. Make sure you are covering the two basic things we often fail to do: get regular exercise and maintain a balanced diet. You must also add to this the avoidance of damaging habits and behaviors.
Possessions
Above all, you should be taking care of yourself. However, contrary to more ascetic philosophies, it’s alright to put some emphasis on your material possessions. Of course, it’s a good idea to not place too much importance on things. But before you jump onto trends like the minimalist movement, be sure to explore alternate ideas about possessions before you start dumping your stuff.
There is nothing wrong with wanting things. It only becomes a problem when you become obsessive over possessions or begin to determine too much of your identity or self-worth based on what you own.
But if you absolutely have to have some of the trappings of success, such as a yacht for example, then set a good example and keep it looking great! Don’t fall into the trap of obtaining things only to become quickly bored of them. Cultivate gratitude for the things you have, and you’ll appreciate them in a way that is alien to our consumption-obsessed culture.
More Than the Sum of Your Parts
Your mind, body, and possessions may all have something to do with the creation of you as an individual, but they are not your totality. Each of us is a unique being that cannot be quantified by merely measuring the abstract and concrete aspects of our lives.
But we shouldn’t try to explain away the mystery of what makes each of us who we are. Instead, accept that you are somehow created in the swirl of thoughts, things, and events of your existence. Then, move with confidence and a purpose toward your goals!
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This post was previously published on LiveTheHero.com and is republished here with permission from the author.
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