The quote “Be substantially great in thyself, and more than thou appearest unto others” emphasizes the importance of inner greatness and authenticity over superficial appearances. Essentially, it suggests that true value lies not in how you are perceived by others but in your genuine qualities, character, and capabilities.
At its core, this message encourages individuals to cultivate a strong sense of self-worth and integrity. It implies that personal greatness is about deepening one’s understanding of themselves—developing virtues like kindness, wisdom, resilience, and a commitment to personal growth. This kind of greatness is often invisible; it might not manifest as outward accolades or recognition but instead shines through actions and choices aligned with one’s values.
In today’s world—a place often dominated by social media portrayals where appearances can be misleading—this idea becomes particularly relevant. Many people curate idealized versions of their lives online; however, the quote urges us to focus on our inner selves rather than seeking validation from external sources.
From a personal development perspective, applying this philosophy can lead to several practical steps:
1. **Self-Reflection**: Regularly spend time reflecting on who you are beyond titles or societal expectations. Journaling about your values or goals can foster greater self-awareness.
2. **Authenticity**: Strive to be genuine in your interactions with others rather than conforming to what you think they want from you. This builds deeper connections based on real understanding.
3. **Focus on Growth**: Embrace lifelong learning—invest time in developing skills or knowledge that resonate with your true interests rather than those seen as socially prestigious.
4. **Emotional Intelligence**: Work towards understanding and managing your emotions while being empathetic towards others—a hallmark of substantial inner greatness.
5. **Resilience Building**: Cultivate resilience by facing challenges head-on without losing sight of who you are fundamentally; embracing failures as opportunities for growth reinforces inner strength.
Ultimately, “being substantially great” means prioritizing depth over distance—the richness within one’s character outweighs any facade put forth for public consumption—and this pursuit leads not only to personal satisfaction but also positively impacts those around us through authentic relationships forged through sincerity and depth.
