Measuring Achievement

Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav said, “If you haven’t grown as a person since yesterday, what need have you for today?” This thought provoking comment lends itself to a number of possible interpretations or responses.

1. Mind your own business, Rabbi Nachman.
2. Daily personal growth is something to which one should aspire.
3. Personal growth is relative.
4. Each day affords us a new opportunity to develop, create, and open new fronts in work, family life, and in all human relationships.

Some people say, “I learn something new every day on the job.” That works.

But simple ‘growth-oriented’ daily actions could include greeting people warmly, learning the names of people we see every day, smiling at the Starbucks person who gives us coffee (and saying “Good morning” instead of just grunting!), being a good listener for friends and co-workers, and calling loved ones randomly during the day. All kinds of little things can be done to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, a simple action into one that encourages human beings to become better people.

Maybe Rabbi Nachman was on to something...