Becoming a better person is a broad subject that can be interpreted in various different ways. One may perceive improvement as striving for more financial success, while the same concept can mean behavioral changes for another individual. However, such concepts depend on how a person interprets the term “bettering” oneself. Becoming a better individual directly correlates with the circumstances in which the change takes place. Indeed, a person can improve through internal work. However, as interacting with the outside world is the primary illustration of one’s personality, the same personality may be shaped through interactions with others. Specifically, encountering different people directly correlates with self-improvement as it facilitates the following of examples, learning through mistakes, and self-reflection.
Learning from Examples
One of the elements that make interactions with other people self-beneficial is the notion of learning from examples. For example, children mimic their parent’s behavior and emotional responses to various circumstances (Han et al. 1116). In regards to adults, synchronizing is not necessary, yet reflecting on one’s traits and behavior may lead to positive personal changes. For example, a person in distress may be able to have a more relaxed approach when frequently spending time with people who tend not to react anxiously to certain circumstances. Similarly, having acquaintances who volunteer or advocate for charitable causes can have a positive impact in regards to inspiring others to have similar hobbies and interests. Thus, spending time with individuals who exemplify honorable personal characteristics and perform activities that facilitate self-improvement and assistance toward others is beneficial from a personal standpoint.
Learning Through Mistakes
Another element that is helpful in regards to bettering oneself based on interactions with others is learning by mistakes. A person who has made a mistake is more likely to be cautious about operating in a similar way in the future. However, the same outcome can be met by analyzing how others operate. For example, one may see a friend have issues due to a lie that has been told and discovered. As a result, the person reflecting on the situation can become a better individual by having a different approach toward the truth. Similarly, the same technique can be employed by examining behavior. For example, seeing a person become isolated and lonely because of how badly they treat others will encourage others to be kind, thoughtful, and respectful towards others.
Learning Through Reactions
Becoming a better person implies a level of kindness, respect, and consideration towards fellow individuals. However, it is important to point out that each person requires a different approach. By interacting, one may learn how to respond and communicate by examining the reactions of others. As a result, the outcomes will include being versatile in communication techniques and sensitivity toward others’ preferences. For example, while one person may like a close and personal discussion on intimate topics, others will not feel comfortable under such conditions. Thus, watching reactions and responses from individuals facilitates an understanding of how to behave under a specific circumstance. For example, a work colleague may have a professional approach toward communication, while other team members prefer a friendly conversation during a lunch break. Understanding such nuances is one element that constitutes the process of becoming better. Namely, being adaptable to any person and situation is useful when forming personal and professional relationships.
Works Cited
Han, Zhuo Rachel, et al. “Correlates of Parent-Child Physiological Synchrony and Emotional Parenting: Differential Associations in Varying Interactive Contexts.” Journal of Child and Family Studies, vol. 28, no. 4, 2019, pp. 1116–1123. doi.org/10.1007/s10826-019-01337-4.