D is for Depth

Do you have depth? To get the most out of life, it is essential to have depth and breadth. Are you driven for a more significant purpose in life? Have you traveled to other parts of the world and applied what you learned to your life? Do you interact with all different types of people? Do you try and experience new things? Do you take a variety of classes? Do you read, listen to podcasts, and seek more knowledge? Do you speak more than one language? Are you working part-time or hold an internship position? Do you do volunteer work? Do you participate in extracurricular activities or are you a student leader of an organization?

Do you seek to build your character? Have you developed your creativity such as writing, painting, dancing, or playing an instrument? If not, what is the obstacle? What do you tell yourself? With whom do you surround yourself; positive people who encourage you and challenge you; or people who will bring you down and add no value?

According to Mark Myhre (2005), writer and emotional healing coach, depth is defined as a way to add richness and beauty to our lives. While you might not have ever read “depth” as being a trait in a leadership book, it is a critical trait. So how can you develop more depth? Depth can be acquired over a lifetime every day, by challenging the status quo regarding learning new things, expanding your character, and seeking purpose and meaning to life. You are looking to expand your thinking and your interests. You have a variety of interests and become more interesting as you share with others. As you do this, your energy expands, and you become more self-actualized.

Depth takes consistent action. It is not “do one thing and stop.” It is not getting a degree in philosophy. It is getting in touch with what you value. It is expanding your knowledge in all areas of your life and sharing it. It is fun exploring and challenging your attitude, knowledge, and skills. Depth allows you to experience new things without judgment or expectation. Depth gives you the opportunity to connect with people at a deeper level. It is not being shallow.

Be open to new opportunities. Be open to meeting new people. Be open to travel. Think about saying yes more often than you say no. Think about the reasons you give yourself when you say no. What might happen if you answered “yes” the next time? You might be surprised how much you have in common with others if you take the time to get to know them. Show people what you value in them.

Resources for Depth:

Resources Myhre, Mark (2005). Developing Personal Depth. https://www.articlecity.com/articles/self_improvement_and_motivation/article_3237.shtml

Well, I believe that the depth of your struggle can determine the height of your success. I was inspired to come out of everything I’ve been through and end up in a place I never thought I would be. – R. Kelly, American singer, songwriter, record and former professional basketball player