What is a “Well-Rounded” Individual?
Renaissance mindset: refers to an approach to life characterized by curiosity, intellectual exploration, and a commitment to continuous learning and personal growth
Accomplishments, skills, and merits are key building blocks to a person’s growth, but at what point do these aspects hinder us? For instance, many of us, after starting a career, begin to identify ourselves with what we do rather than who we are. There is nothing wrong with taking pride in what you do, but problems arise when it becomes the only thing we identify with. Consider a fitness enthusiast slowly becoming a bodybuilder. This is a huge accomplishment in the realm of physical feats. However, if this individual only thinks and talks about weightlifting, at what point do they become “just another meathead”?
Similarly, a brilliant engineer spends all their time learning the newest frameworks and libraries, but in social settings, they might have the emotional intelligence of a potato. At what point do they become “socially awkward”? Yet, when you combine these two identities—a bodybuilder who works as an engineer—you encounter a walking contradiction. Engineers are known for being smart but often out of shape and awkward, while bodybuilders are seen as confident but perhaps not the brightest.
The Human Dimensions
Fun Fact: Did you know your brain is elastic, meaning it can change and grow or shrink depending on your habits? Research has shown that learning new skills, trying new foods, and experiencing new things are all great for your brain. Your brain has to generate new cells to process what’s happening, resulting in growth and expansion. This means trying new things and embracing new experiences improves your brain health!
There are always dimensions a person can improve on. Many of us tend to cling to our strongest characteristic for fear of looking weak or unintelligent when we should view these moments as great opportunities for improvement. The first step in mastering something is to be bad at it.
Some dimensions worth considering are:
- Physical: This extends beyond lifting weights and achieving your dream body. How functional are your muscles? Is your nutrition correct, or are you lacking essential macros? Maintaining a healthy heart and brain, a strong immune system and a functional body are all key elements of physical health.
- IQ (Book Smarts): This encompasses problem-solving, analytical thinking, and abstract reasoning. It involves processing information and reaching conclusions based on the information comprehended.
- EQ (Emotional Intelligence): Individuals with high emotional intelligence (EQ) are self-aware, empathetic, and adept at managing their emotions and relationships. They excel in effective communication, conflict resolution, and adaptability, displaying resilience and a positive influence on others. If you’re thinking about yourself and thinking, “Wow, I have all this,” then you’re lacking some serious self-awareness. “Self-aware individuals tread a path of continuous learning, for with each step of awareness comes the profound realization that there is always more to learn, more to understand, and more room to grow.”
- Professional Development: Hopefully, you’re one of the lucky ones doing something you’re passionate about for a living (while also contributing to society). Unfortunately, living isn’t free, but the more you work on your professional development, the more you set yourself up to earn more financially, find increased job satisfaction, and even network and meet like-minded people willing to help in your business ventures or professional growth.
- Creative and Artistic Growth: Developing artistically and creatively offers many benefits, including enhanced creativity and problem-solving skills, improved mental health through stress reduction and emotional expression, and boosted self-esteem. It sharpens cognitive abilities, observation skills, and empathy, while also improving communication. Engaging in art can enhance fine motor skills, patience, and adaptability.
- Community: Engagement with and contribution to one’s community can be a significant source of personal growth. This might involve building relationships, participating in community service, or contributing to positive changes in your local area or a wider community. It helps in developing a sense of belonging, purpose, and connection to others.
Love the Process
This is a lifetime journey, not just a mundane checklist to waltz through. Each dimension is filled with countless skills to master and relationships to forge. In every aspect and dimension of being human, choose the paths that ignite the most joy and fulfillment in you. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all grocery list where you tick off items and suddenly – you’re a ‘well-rounded person’. It’s about embracing your unique journey, finding what resonates with your soul, and loving every bit of this adventure. There are infinite skills and relationships in each of these fields, especially when you start combining them. Don’t live in a small world created by your limited views. Try new things, have more experiences, and expand your horizons.