In the quest for change, many of us start by trying to change the world around us. However, true transformation begins with ourselves. How we “be” in the world—our attitude, behaviour, and presence—plays a crucial role in the way we experience life and influence others. While changing our circumstances can be important, it’s often more effective to begin by changing ourselves and the way we interact with the world around us.

In the last post, we talked about how our world view anchors our being, our experience and how it helps us navigate day to day life. It shapes how we perceive and interact with our surroundings and how we deal with competing thoughts, ideas and actions. This mindset has an impact on our thoughts and influences specific choices, experiences and emotions. These emotions prompt further thoughts, creating a cycle. Repeated behaviours eventually form habits and over time, it is these habits that shape our character and define how we live our lives.
In short: Thinking > Choices > Behaviours > Experiences > Emotions > Thoughts

The way we show up in the world is shaped by our internal beliefs and worldviews. These mental and emotional frameworks influence how we interact with people, handle challenges, and create opportunities. If we approach life from a place of fear or defensiveness, we may inadvertently project those qualities onto others, which creates a cycle of conflict and disconnection. Conversely, when we embody qualities like openness, kindness, and acceptance, we invite similar energy from others.

One of the most profound aspects of being in the world is recognising that we are not separate from it. Our thoughts, actions, and energy influence everything around us, whether we realise it or not. This interconnectedness means that when we change our internal state, the external world begins to shift. If we are at peace with ourselves and our own being and how we inhabit the world, we are more likely to experience peace in our relationships and environments. 

The process of becoming more present and intentional in the way we engage with the world requires developing self-awareness and critical thinking. We need to examine the beliefs and habits we’ve inherited and ask ourselves whether they align with the kind of person we want to be. For example, are we reacting from a place of fear or are we acting from a place of love and understanding? Are we contributing positively to the world, or are we reinforcing division and separation?

One powerful method of change is by consciously choosing to embody the qualities we admire in others. This could mean practicing patience, listening more deeply, or cultivating a sense of gratitude. It’s important to remember that we don’t need to be perfect; we simply need to be committed to showing up authentically and be deliberate with our intentions and actions.

The wisdom of Rumi reminds us that change begins from within. As we work on shifting our internal landscape – our mindset, emotions, and behaviours—we begin to see the world differently and navigate our surroundings in an alternative way. Our sense of connection with others deepens, and we start to live more harmoniously. The transformation we seek in the world begins with the transformation of ourselves. Ultimately, how we show up in the world is just as important as what we do. By embodying the qualities we wish to see in others, we can create a ripple effect of positive change that starts from within.