What you get vs. what you become!

 - CEJames & Alfonz Ingram

The distinction between what you get and what you become lies in the contrast between external rewards and internal transformation. This concept, rooted in personal development, philosophy, and even martial arts, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing growth and character over material outcomes. Let’s break this down:

1. What You Get

• Refers to external rewards and outcomes.

• Includes tangible achievements: wealth, titles, possessions, recognition, and status.

• Often fleeting in nature; what you get may bring temporary satisfaction but doesn’t necessarily lead to lasting fulfillment.

• Focuses on the result rather than the process.

Examples:

• A job promotion provides a higher salary (what you get), but it doesn’t necessarily improve your skills or character.

• Winning a competition offers a trophy, but the material reward fades over time.

2. What You Become

• Refers to internal growth and transformation.

• Includes qualities such as wisdom, resilience, discipline, humility, and mastery of a skill.

• Leads to lasting fulfillment, as it aligns with one’s deeper values and purpose.

• Focuses on the process and journey rather than the destination.

Examples:

• Training in martial arts develops discipline, patience, and inner strength (what you become), regardless of winning competitions.

• Facing challenges in life builds resilience and wisdom, which shape your character.

Key Differences

Philosophy and Perspectives

1. Eastern Philosophy:

• Taoism: Emphasizes the journey and flowing with life rather than obsessing over outcomes.

• Zen Buddhism: The practice of mindfulness fosters inner transformation over material gains.

2. Stoicism:

• Stoics like Marcus Aurelius focused on developing virtues (courage, wisdom, temperance) rather than seeking external rewards.

3. Modern Personal Development:

• Jim Rohn famously said, “The major value in life is not what you get. The major value in life is what you become.”

Application in Martial Arts

• What You Get: Belt ranks, trophies, or recognition.

• What You Become: Improved self-awareness, mastery, humility, and adaptability.

In Okinawan karate, for example, the focus is often less on attaining a black belt (what you get) and more on embodying the principles of respect, discipline, and resilience (what you become).

Conclusion

While what you get provides short-term satisfaction, what you become offers lasting fulfillment and shapes your legacy. The balance between these two aspects is essential, but true success often lies in focusing on internal growth over external rewards.