to Begin Within.

* 100 principals were asked about the people-skills they look for when hiring a new teacher.
In no particular order, the following traits were listed:
--Good attitude / optimistic, --Love of learning / inspiring this in others, --Handling stress / being resilient, --Ability to read emotions, --Responsible, --Resourceful, --Willingness to try something new or different, --Likes people / children, --Willing to be a role model, --Wants to make a difference, -- Being a team member,  --Enthusiastic,  --Good sense of humor,  --Flexible,  --Creative,  --Self-confident, --Passionate about what you do.

How can we ever teach ourselves all of these many traits? It may seem daunting to try to memorize all those qualities and to try to make sure each item is checked off the list. 

But, the way to change / modify our actions begins with our thoughts and feelings – Begin Within.

By modifying the intention & attitude we hold within us, we are aiming to modify our thoughts and feelings, and thus consequently our actions. All of the above traits are just outward manifestations of one way or mode of being which begins from within us. That mode of being is the umbrella that holds all these traits together.

~ If you hold the umbrella, then you hold all the traits it carries. ~

The concept / term that is the umbrella holding together all the traits listed above and sums up the source of all these traits into ONE word is: CARE; Caringness; To be Caring. This umbrella term is just a word I chose to describe a type of general attitude which is positive and compassionate towards all of Life: every moment and person. There are other words such as Compassion and Love that can be used as well. However, Care is such a useful and practical term because it is not so abstract or loaded with connotations. The concept of Care is graspable and precise. It’s about Caring.

When we are Caring, we have the best intention for all aspects of Life – including others and ourselves.

When we have Caringness, we are wishing the best for the situation and everyone involved.

To be Caring is to want a positive experience for All.

Caringness is about being open to allow everyone to reach the best possible experience.

Care is about being present to each moment and to each person.

Care is about being accountable for what you care about.

Care is acceptance and appreciation.

Care is Love.

When we Care, then we take care – we give Care to the fullness of our capacity.

Ask yourself: is it possible for you to be Caring and to NOT live out any of those traits listed above?

The state of Caringness is one which effortlessly ensures that all those traits are naturally manifested because there is no other way of being if one is being Caring.

This is what “Begin Within” is all about. It’s about changing the world within you, which then changes the world around you. The inner atmosphere we create is the one we outwardly manifest. One can not create a positive outer reality if one’s inner reality is not positive.

When we create the energy of Caringness from within, then the only natural result is that this Care will manifest outwardly. 
Then, the outward manifestation of one’s inner climate of Care will precipitate to spread onto other people as they begin to shift their inner climate as well - from the catalyst of being inspired by feeling positive energy. 

People will shift their energy when you shift yours. 

Begin Within.  

~*~