The quality of your life is the reflection of your standards. Raising your standards is not about being an egomaniac. It’s about having a healthy level of self-respect. 

When you raise your standards and turn “should” into “must,” you are making an inner shift to take control over the quality of your life. Any area you are not getting what you want is because you haven’t raised your standards.

If you want real change, you have to be willing to do your part. And it starts with asking yourself, honestly, who you are. Are you a winner? Or are you always a step behind making excuses? Are you the life of the party and bring joy to those around you? Or are you more reserved or create drama?

Answering the question of “who you are” and discovering what your true beliefs are about yourself is critical because this is your identity. And the fact is, we are hard-wired to follow through on who we believe we are.

Consider someone who is trying to stop being lazy. They might say to themselves, “I’m going to do my best to stop being lazy, but I’ve always been lazy.” It doesn’t matter how hard they try; if their identity is that they’re a lazy poop, it’s pointless. Maybe they get a burst of motivation for a few days, but those days are numbered, and they’ll be back to their lazy selves soon enough. We act consistently with who we think we are, and ultimately, that’s who we become.

Unfortunately, most people never recognize what they are capable of because they think too small and lack self-efficacy.

If you raise the standard of your mindset, you will not be shattered by the failures or setbacks in life. You will see obstacles as an opportunity to learn and grow. You will get inspired instead of getting jealous. You will participate in healthy competition instead of comparing yourself with others.

Find others who have high standards, surround yourself with people who accept you, respect you, and inspire you to become better.