Ask people how long Personal Development has been around for and they will probably say only a short time and quote motivational speakers like Tony Robbins as bringing this concept to the world.

But did you know Personal Development, or Self Development as its also known, has been around for over two thousand years, but in those days what was it known as?

The following quote can be found on the tomb of an Anglican Bishop in Westminster Abbey 1100AD).

“When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world.

As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country.

But it, too, seemed immovable.

As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt,

I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it.

And now, as I lie on my deathbed, I suddenly realize:

If I had only changed myself first, then by example I would have changed my family.

From their inspiration and encouragement,
I would then have been able to better my country, and who knows,
I may have even changed the world.”

The point here is that if he had changed himself first then by example he could go on to change his family, and with their support would be able to go on to greater things.

Remember, change comes from within. You can not change outside influences without changing your thoughts and beliefs first.

So what did these people call Personal Development long ago? We have all heard of the word Faith which means believing in something not yet seen. So believing you can change is the key here.

I will leave you with a quote from Aristotle. (384BC-322BC). “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom”

Written by Dave McPherson.