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Writer's picturePatrick Healy

Wisdom Wednesdays #12: Rumi on Inner Change

This Week's Wisdom:

"Yesterday, I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself." - Rumi

About the Wisdom

Rumi, the 13th-century Persian poet, and Sufi mystic is renowned for his deep spiritual insights and poetic explorations of the human soul.


Picture of Rumi
Rumi, by Iranian artist Hossein Behzad (1957)

 In this line, Rumi suggests that real power and influence come not from attempting to control others or the world around us, but from cultivating change within ourselves. This quote reflects a fundamental shift in perspective—from the frustration of trying to change the external world to the wisdom of focusing on internal transformation.


Personal Reflection

Rumi's words have had a profound impact on me, especially in my work as a consultant and coach. Early in my career, I often found myself frustrated when trying to influence change in organizations or individuals who were resistant to it. Over time, I realized that the most effective way to inspire change in others is to model it within myself.


By focusing on my own growth and behavior, I not only found greater peace but also became a more effective helper, teacher, and leader. Paradoxically, I learned when you give up trying to control other people or outcomes, you often get better outcomes! This realization has allowed me to approach challenges with greater patience and understanding, recognizing that true influence begins with self-awareness and self-improvement.


Reflection Questions for You

Here are a few questions for you to ponder based on this wisdom:


  • Have you ever felt frustrated trying to change others or the world around you? What might have happened if you focused on changing yourself instead?

  • What areas of your life could benefit from focusing more on changing yourself rather than those around you?


Challenge for the Week

This week, identify a situation where you’ve been trying to change someone else or an external circumstance with little success. Instead of pushing for change outside of yourself, focus on how you can shift your own perspective, behavior, or attitude in relation to this situation. Observe how this internal change impacts the situation, your feelings about it, and


That's it for this week! Join me next Wednesday for more wisdom to guide your journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

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