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Look Beyond Yourself with Faith

Look Beyond Yourself with Faith

Last updated on: October 18, 2024 at 8:14 am by Michele Gunn

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Look Beyond Yourself with Faith 2024-10-18T08:14:11-05:00 Michele Gunn

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Looking Beyond Yourself: service to others

Looking Beyond Yourself with Faith

Look Beyond Yourself with Faith

Have you ever been so caught up in your own life that you failed to notice the struggles of others? Do you look beyond yourself? If the answer is no, know that you are not alone. In this world of me, me, me, we tend to focus more on our own needs than the needs of other people. If you have ever read the Bible or learned anything about Christianity, you know that is not how we are supposed to live.

Many people today get so consumed with their own lives, problems, or goals that they lose touch with the world around them. Many are struggling to get by. People struggle financially, mentally, emotionally and physically. It can consume them if they allow it. I did a livestream about this subject. You can check it out here.

Awareness is important in maintaining healthy relationships, communities, and empathy. We cannot be there to support, encourage or help if we are unaware of what people are struggling with.

Signs You Might Be Too Self-Involved

Are you unintentionally blocking out the world? Maybe you are intentionally blocking out the world. Afterall, life can be tough. Focusing too much on personal achievements or problems acts as blinders to what is happening around you. This causes a lack of awareness about what is happening in other peoples’ lives.

Failing to notice friends or colleagues struggling emotionally or mentally causes more problems for you as well as for your friends or colleagues who are struggling. It is really akin to ignoring opportunities to help or to serve others.

Check in: Do you know what your friends or colleagues are struggling with? Look beyond yourself.

The Dangers of Living in Your Own Bubble

Living a self-centered life can be harmful to you as well as others. It can cause emotional isolation. You can become disconnected from other people. You may miss opportunities to grow in empathy and compassion. This can cause strained relationships. People often pull back or pull away when they feel unnoticed or uncared for. You may feel a lack of fulfillment. Focusing solely on personal success may not bring true happiness. Although society teaches us (more today than ever before) that you are the most important thing, putting your needs first does not bring true happiness, especially if you have no one to share it with. This egocentrism creates an unawareness of how interconnected we truly are. Every action (or inaction) causes a reaction. In Interconnectedness and Personal Relationships you are taken through an exercise that demonstrates just how connected people are. Focusing on yourself creates a lack of belonging.

How to Become More Aware of Others Around You

How do you shift your focus from self to others? Here are some easy steps to start implementing in your life:

Practice active listening: Truly engage in conversations. Be fully present.
Spend time observing: Watch and listen to those around you.
Ask questions: Show interest in others’ lives and struggles. Listen to the answers.
Volunteer or help others: Small acts of kindness can make a big impact.
Pray or reflect on how you can serve those in need.

As always, start small. You can pick just one thing to practice and then build on it. Seek help if needed.

Balancing Self-Care with Awareness of Others

Remember that you can care for yourself while you are caring for others. In fact, you need to! It is hard to give when you are feeling depleted. Part of your self-care should include healthy boundaries. For example, helping others while not neglecting yourself. Know your limits and know when you need to rest and recharge. Over committing can harm you more than the good it may provide to others. Remember the biblical principle of loving your neighbor as yourself Mark 12:31, “The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.’” (usccb.org)

Follow Jesus’ Example of Love and Service

Jesus’ life is a model for caring for others while fulfilling personal mission. Scriptures emphasize service and loving others. For example, Philippians 2:3-4 “Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but [also] everyone for those of others”

An exceptional example is Archangels of Texas. This organization helps homeless people. The founder started this nonprofit because of a personal interaction she had, She saw a need and felt called to help.

Another scriptural example is Galatians 6:2, “Bear one another’s burdens,and so you will fulfill the law of Christ.” This can be done by being a good friend and confidante. Remember that it is important to live with empathy, humility, and generosity. This is living as a Christian. This is looking beyond yourself.

Practical Tips for Staying Connected with Others in a Busy World

It is so easy to get caught up in the daily tasks and miss opportunities to serve others. Here are some tips to help you stay connected look beyond yourself:

Scheduling regular check-ins with friends and family.
Volunteer or participate in community activities.
Limit time spent on personal goals to create space for others.
Keep a gratitude journal.
Reflect on how the people in your life are connected to you.

Remember the importance of balancing self-care with the needs of others. You cannot continue to serve others if you do not first take care of yourself. Look beyond yourself and evaluate your awareness and take steps to become more attuned to the world around you. Volunteer Match is a great place to start your volunteer search.

Know that the power of love can change the world for the better.

How will you start paying attention to those around you today?

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