“Do not give your attention to what others do or fail to do; give it to what you do or fail to do.” -Dhammapada

It’s tempting to focus your energy on other people. It allows you to stay stuck wherever you are in life without feeling responsibility to change.

Having trouble getting along with people? It’s their fault–they’re demanding, selfish, and stubborn.

Can’t advance professionally? It’s your co-workers’ fault for creating a difficult work environment.

Maybe there’s some truth to your observations. People can be difficult, demanding, selfish, and stubborn. All people.

You can’t control or change anyone else, but you can improve the way you interpret their actions and deal with them.

Today when you’re tempted to focus on other people’s shortcomings, turn your attention inward instead. No one is perfect; but we can all get closer every day by starting change with ourselves.