This week's emotional intelligence tip is inspired by one of my favorite quotes from Michelangelo. When asked how he carved the statue of David out of a huge piece of marble, he simply replied, "I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set it free."
This quote has always been close to my heart. It's featured in my book and is how I end my keynotes. However, its meaning deepened for me during my recent visit to Florence, where I saw the Statue of David in person. The statue was even grander and more captivating than I could have ever imagined, truly taking my breath away.
While gazing at this magnificent sculpture, an art historian shared something profound: this was the first statue created exactly how Michelangelo wanted, without any guidance or alterations from those who commissioned it. Before David, artists typically followed detailed instructions from their patrons. Michelangelo's David was a pure expression of his vision, a 360-degree masterpiece that has remained iconic for centuries.
This revelation brought Michelangelo's quote full circle for me. It made me ponder: What would happen if, like Michelangelo, we would unapologetically "be who we came to be"? If we carved away our fears and doubts to reveal our authentic selves, how would that transform our lives and impact those around us?
Embrace Your Inner Angel
Acknowledge Your Unique Gifts: Take a moment to recognize what makes you special. What are your talents? What brings you fulfillment and joy? These are the first glimpses of your inner angel.
Chip Away at Self-Doubt: Just as Michelangelo carved away the excess marble, we must carve away our doubts and fears. Trust in your abilities and believe that your true self is worth revealing.
Create Authentically: Like Michelangelo, create from your heart. Let your work be a true reflection of who you are, unshaped by the expectations of others. My message, "be who you came to be," was born from a note my grandmother left my son over 16 years ago. She wrote, "Be who you came to be. Love will guide you." These words remind us that when we follow our authentic path, love and passion will illuminate the way.
The Power of Authenticity
Living authentically means embracing who you truly are, without trying to fit into someone else's mold. It’s about finding and nurturing your own gifts, and allowing them to shine in the world. When you live authentically, you inspire others to do the same. Imagine the impact we could make if we all embraced our authentic selves.
Michelangelo changed the world of art by daring to be true to his vision. What changes could we bring about by daring to be our true selves?
Let's carve away the excess and reveal the angel and masterpiece within us all.
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