"شما فقط می‌توانید بفهمید که واقعاً به چه چیزی اعتقاد دارید نه آنچه که فکر می‌کنید به آن اعتقاد دارید با تماشای چگونگی رفتار خود. شما قبل از آن واقعاً نمی‌دانید به چه چیزی اعتقاد دارید."

This idea centers on the notion that our true beliefs are revealed through our actions rather than our thoughts. Essentially, it's not what you think you believe that matters—it's what you do that shows your real beliefs.

To understand this better, let's dive into some history. This is a paraphrase of a concept often discussed by philosophers like Aristotle and modern thinkers like Jordan Peterson. Aristotle believed that virtues are habits developed through practice. If you claim to believe in charity but never help others, your actions contradict your supposed belief. Peterson, in modern contexts, echoes this by suggesting that our actions, especially under stress, show our true values.

Picture this: imagine someone who claims to value honesty above all else. They preach it, they teach it, and they think they live it. But one day, they find themselves in a sticky situation at work. A small lie can save them a lot of trouble. They lie. This action speaks louder than their words or thoughts. It reveals that, in that moment, convenience was more important to them than honesty. Their true belief wasn't aligned with the value they thought they held.

To take this wisdom and apply it in your own life, start by becoming a keen observer of your actions. Are you someone who thinks they value health but skips workouts and eats junk food regularly? Or maybe you consider yourself open-minded, but you shut down opposing viewpoints immediately. These actions are telling you something important. Reflect on these discrepancies. Ask yourself why they exist. What fear or comfort is leading you to act against your stated beliefs?

Here's a story to illustrate. Picture two friends, Sarah and Mike. They both say they value work-life balance. Sarah often stays late at work, missing family dinners and weekend plans. Mike, on the other hand, makes it a point to leave work on time, prioritizing his hobbies and family time. Now, who truly values work-life balance? It's clear from their actions. Sarah might think she values it, but her actions say otherwise. Mike, through his consistent practice, shows that he genuinely holds this belief.

For you, it might mean setting small, achievable actions that align with your values. Want to be more generous? Start by helping a friend move or donating regularly to a cause you care about. Believe in lifelong learning? Make a habit of reading before bed or taking online courses. It's these small, consistent actions that reinforce and reveal your true beliefs.

Remember, this isn't about judgment. It's about awareness. By understanding the gap between what you think you believe and what your actions say, you have the power to make genuine changes. It’s like holding up a mirror to your inner self and getting a clearer picture. You might be surprised at what you find, but it's an essential step in growing into the person you want to be.