Jean-Paul Sartre once said, “Man is nothing else but that which he makes of himself.”
This idea — that we create ourselves entirely through the choices we make — is both liberating and daunting. Sartre believed that humans are unique because their existence precedes their essence, meaning we are not born with a preordained purpose. Instead, we shape our soul, personality, and essence through the daily decisions we make.
Each of us is the originator of our actions, the master of our fate, and the captain of our soul. Yet many people allow their choices to be driven by unconscious habits or outdated beliefs, remnants of childhood conditioning that no longer serve them. But here’s the truth: we have the freedom to remold ourselves, to consciously become the person we wish to be. This freedom, while powerful, comes with the responsibility of making intentional choices.
Why is this so important? Because the questions we ask ourselves shape the quality of our lives. Thought-provoking questions interrupt habitual patterns, elevate our thinking, and help us identify gaps between where we are and where we want to be. Questions — like “What can I do to create the greatest net value in this moment?” — empower us to transition from reactive, “B-game” thinking to proactive, “A-game” living.
As Benjamin Franklin wisely noted, “What happens is not as important as how you react to what happens.” Life is not about avoiding challenges but about how you respond to them. Every situation presents a choice: you can choose to be a victim of your circumstances, or you can choose to learn and grow from them.
Self-leadership is the purposeful practice of using your best thinking in every situation that matters. It is consciously making choices and taking actions that align with what truly matters most to you.
Hunter S. Thompson once wrote, “It is not necessary to accept the choices handed down to you by life.” In other words, you have the power to create your own path. By taking ownership of your freedom, asking better questions, and leading yourself with intention, you can transform your life into one of purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Learn more at Achievable.com.
Boost Your Business Growth with a Leadership Health Checkup!
Just like an annual health checkup, it’s important to take a moment and assess your company’s leadership. Here’s your chance!
I’ve created a Leadership Health Checkup sheet that has helped many businesses grow, and I’m offering it to you for FREE! Simply fill out the form below, and it will be sent to your email.
For the best results, have leaders, managers, or even the whole team fill it out anonymously.
– Michael Gidlewski, Founder of Achievement Unlimited, Inc.
