Julius Charles Hare: 'Be what you are. This is the first step toward becoming better than you are.'

Be what you are. This is the first step toward becoming better than you are.

In the famous words of Julius Charles Hare, "Be what you are. This is the first step toward becoming better than you are." At first glance, this quote may seem somewhat simplistic, encouraging individuals to embrace their true selves. However, beneath its surface lies a profound message about personal growth and self-improvement. By examining this quote from different angles, we can uncover its true meaning and understand its significance in our lives.On a straightforward level, Hare's quote emphasizes the importance of authenticity and self-acceptance. It urges individuals to stay true to themselves and avoid conforming to societal expectations or norms. In today's world, it is all too easy to lose sight of our true identities amidst the pressures of social media, peer influence, and the pursuit of success. Hare's words remind us that embracing our unique qualities and expressing them without fear or hesitation is the first step towards personal growth.Yet, this quote goes beyond embracing individuality and touches upon a deeper philosophical concept – the continuous journey towards self-betterment. It implies that while being true to ourselves is vital, it is equally crucial to strive for continuous improvement and growth. In other words, personal development is not a static state but rather a dynamic process that unfolds throughout our lives.To better understand this concept, let's delve into the philosophy of the ancient Greeks. Aristotle, one of the greatest philosophers of all time, introduced the idea of "eudaimonia." Essentially, eudaimonia refers to a flourishing life, in which individuals fulfill their potential and live in accordance with their virtues. It goes hand in hand with the notion of becoming better than we are.However, Aristotle believed that achieving eudaimonia requires a balance between being true to our nature and striving for self-improvement. He argued that our nature serves as a foundation from which we can enhance our capabilities and virtues. In this sense, Hare's quote aligns with Aristotle's philosophy, emphasizing that self-acceptance and the acknowledgment of our inherent qualities are the starting point to become better versions of ourselves.Nevertheless, it is worth noting the delicate balance required to navigate this journey of self-improvement. On one hand, embracing our true nature can prevent us from succumbing to the pressures of society and nourish our self-esteem. On the other hand, remaining stagnant in our comfort zones without actively seeking growth and self-improvement may hinder our potential for personal development.By recognizing this balance, we can appreciate the depth and wisdom behind Hare's seemingly simple quote. It serves as a reminder that personal growth lies in the intersection between self-acceptance and the pursuit of self-improvement. It encourages us to foster an environment where we can be true to ourselves while continuously striving to become better than we are.In conclusion, Julius Charles Hare's thought-provoking quote, "Be what you are. This is the first step toward becoming better than you are," holds great significance in our lives. It reminds us of the value of authenticity and self-acceptance, urging us to stay true to ourselves amidst societal pressures. Furthermore, the quote points to a deeper philosophical concept, highlighting the ongoing journey of self-betterment. Just as Aristotle believed, it suggests that personal growth unfolds when we embrace our nature while actively seeking continuous improvement. Ultimately, by walking this path, we can not only embrace our true selves but also become the best versions of ourselves.