Dashboard Data & Measuring Ourselves
This morning I was driving to work along a local parkway, listening to WGN and going with the traffic flow. I happened to look down at my speedometer and gasped – I was going 77 in a 40 mph zone. What’s worse was that EVERYONE was doing the same speed. With even greater speed, I snapped into Judgment Mode and bellowed, “What’s wrong with everyone!” (Fortunately, my windows were rolled up.)
I then turned onto the expressway and settled into the middle lane. Cars were passing me on the left and the right. I again glanced at my speedometer and my eyes bugged out. The speedometer indicated 113! Wait a minute – that fast in my Prius? It’s red. It’s got kick-ass acceleration. But that fast? Impossible!
Then I remembered. Last night, my favorite 2 year old was sitting in the front seat pushing all the buttons that he could reach while I looked on, smiling indulgently. (Safety note: car was parked in driveway.) Yes, the amazing 2 year old had pushed the mph/km button.
People had not been speeding (that much). I was just applying the wrong measurement.
This got me thinking about how I measure myself. At first, I accepted the number on the dashboard as the accurate measurement of my speed. But of course, my interpretation was incorrect.
Perhaps I’m misapplying other measurements. For instance:
- Does a high number on the scale indicate that I am unattractive or lacking discipline?
- Do low test scores mean that I am not smart?
- Does a paycheck that is lower than some of my contemporaries demonstrate that I have less value?
Measurements are useful and many times necessary. But at the end of the day, they are just numbers. It’s apparent that careful interpretation is in order when measuring ourselves and others.
I know that now I will try to proceed with caution when considering how I measure myself and others. We are so much more than a collection of numeric measurements.
In fact, at the end of the day – I prefer to be measured by such things as the kindness I’ve shown others, the choices that I’ve made, and the words of hope that I’ve shared. It’s all about living each day in a joyful manner. These are the substantive measurements that I most value.
So what about it – could you be misapplying certain measurements as pertain to yourself? If yes, carefully consider the real meaning of these numbers. In fact, why not take charge of your life and determine how you truly wish to be measured!
