Directing Outward

I'm a very self-involved person, I think it comes as part of being an introvert or maybe just of being shy. But I spend alot of time inside my own head and worrying about myself, my actions, my impression on others, etc. I just read how becoming enlightened or in touch with reality causes one to become more outwardly directed. The focus shifts to others rather than self. In realizing that self and other are not seperate, attending to others becomes natural. No longer, is little me the center of the universe. Rather I am just another participant like all beings moving about in the larger scheme of things.

This is an interesting concept to me and one that seems very useful. Suffering and pain seem to follow closely with self-involvement and preoccupation. How often does one suffer when you are looking and acting outward? I would think much less than when dwelling and ruminating inwardly. It seems like we are happiest when swept away with something outside ourselves. When in that flow state where the little me seems to get lost. If only we could maintain that sense in everyday life.

I feel simply choosing to remind myself to focus on other is a step in the right direction. Focus on their wellbeing, interest and needs rather than my own. Perhaps, like any habit, focusing outward will grow and become a normal way of being rather than the exception. Looking out more often than looking in.