This quote, attributed to Archimedes, the Greek mathematician and physicist, undoubtedly relates to his explanation of the use of levers.

And yet…

Looking at it again this week, it struck me that this is true in a metaphorical sense as well as a scientific one.

When we are faced with changes, especially when we are driving change of our own volition, we need some constants in our lives to keep us steady.

To create change in the world, one needs a strong sense of self.  It enables us to stay focused on the end result and to endure the upheaval in the interim.  Without that strong sense of self, it’s easy to lose the sense of purpose, to feel cast adrift on the tide of change and to scrabble around for something, anything to cling to.

What creates the sense of self?

I think it varies from person to person.  For some it’s a personal mission, an overriding sense of purpose or a problem that must be solved.  For others, it’s the people they love and the commitments they make to those people.

It can be a simple case of daily habits and routines or everyday enjoyment of your home environment, the community where you live or a social group.  Our work, profession or role in life can also provide that ‘firm spot on which to stand’.

I invite you to consider, as you navigate whatever changes are current for you, how to strengthen your own ‘firm spot’ and how to stand there in your full sense of self.