"誰もが世界を変えようと考えるが、自分を変えようとは考えない"

Often, we dream big and imagine making a huge impact on the world. We think about solving global issues, starting movements, or making groundbreaking inventions. But how often do we pause and consider changing ourselves first? That’s what the quote is getting at—real change begins within us.

This idea has roots in both history and personal experience. Think about it: Leo Tolstoy, a famous Russian writer, penned this thought. He lived in the 19th century, a time of great social upheaval and change in Russia. Tolstoy saw many people who were eager to reform society but didn’t pay much attention to their own flaws. As someone deeply concerned with moral and spiritual growth, he understood that the path to a better society starts with individual transformation.

Let’s take a detailed, real-life example: Mahatma Gandhi. He’s known for leading India to independence through nonviolent resistance. But before he became a leader, he focused on changing himself. Gandhi experimented with his diet, his clothing, and his personal habits to align with his values. His commitment to personal integrity gave him the credibility to lead a massive movement. If Gandhi had not first looked inward and changed himself, would he have been able to inspire millions? Probably not.

So how can you apply this wisdom? Start small. Reflect on your habits, your attitudes, and your biases. It’s tempting to point fingers at society’s flaws, but what if we each tackled our own? Want to see less hatred in the world? Start by examining your own heart for prejudice. Think education is important? Commit to lifelong learning and encourage those around you to do the same. Change is like a ripple in water—it starts with a single drop.

Imagine this scenario: you’re at a family dinner, and a heated debate erupts about politics. Normally, you’d jump in, maybe raise your voice, and try to convince everyone you’re right. What if, instead, you decided to change your approach? You listen calmly, ask questions, and try to understand others’ perspectives. Your family notices the shift and, slowly, the conversations become more respectful and productive. You’ve not just changed yourself; you’ve influenced others.

Think about a time when you were frustrated with the world. Maybe it was the litter in your neighborhood or the negativity on social media. You wanted to change it, right? But did you consider your own actions first? Did you pick up that piece of trash or spread positivity online? Real change—lasting change—starts with us. It’s not always easy, and it’s definitely not always fun. But it’s powerful.

So next time you’re thinking about how to make the world a better place, start with the person in the mirror. It’s a small step, but those small steps can lead to giant leaps.