Ready for Change?

Ready for Change?

by Scott Harper

“You are the only one who can change yourself."

Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga

September 9, 2026

I know you see all the ridiculous things the people around you keep doing that seem to continuously cause them unnecessary restlessness, irritation, and consternation.

Do you wonder why they don’t just stop doing this or start doing that?

It all seems so obvious from your perspective.

If they would just listen to you, wouldn’t their troubles be fewer and their lives be happier?

Most likely.

Well, why don’t you go and “fix” everything for them?

The same reason nobody fixes them for you.

We are responsible for our own lives.

If I hate my job, there are a million things I can change.

No matter how much I complain about being broke, whining won’t fix my spending habits.

If my relationship is in the dumps, chances are I had a big hand in it along the way.

All the self-help books, podcasts, lectures, and sermons have one major theme in common—ain’t nobody responsible for fixing me but me.

Bottom line: When you decide you are ready for a change, don’t look out, look within.

SHARPER LEADER:

1. Who or what currently frustrates you the most?

Action Step: This week, make no attempts to fix it for someone else. Strive toward improving it within yourself first.

2. Do you get upset when others don’t listen to your advice?

Action Step: Don’t give any unsolicited advice this week. When you advise others, don’t allow your peace to come from their results.

3. What change do you believe will bring you greater peace?

Action Step: Only focus on the changes you can make, accept the ones you can’t, and start growing.