How do we take control of our destiny?

'Be the change you wish to see in the world' - a wonderful philosophy, but just how practical is it?
If we could control our destiny we could influence the world but many of us seem destined to repeat our mistakes, pushing the very people that would help us away, as if we are frightened of the consequences, frightened of the possibility of confronting ourselves.
Even the best intentioned seem to fall by the wayside of conceit as they come under the influence of increased wealth, recognition or power, all of which seems to come about as a result of people finding direction and purpose in their life.
How do we take control of our destiny yet avoid the pitfalls that can result from success?

Re: How do we take control of our destiny?

This is a great question. Though it depends on what you mean by ” pushing the people who would help us away”. No one can be me, nor I them. When people are reflecting truth then wouldn't it make sense that it would be of the present person and their accomplishments? :)
I think power and wealth show the truth about who the person really is. True gratitude does not abuse power to be hurtful to others, but you take what you have and use it for good.
I think being yourself and being true to yourself is taking control of your own destiny. You can walk through life confidently without stepping on anyone along the way and supporting those who strive for a better life. (Gandi said something similar about gratitude) This is how I see true power. As far as the “pitfalls of success” I am not there yet and so I have not learned if there are any pitfalls. The only thing I can count on is who I am and my own experience which has made me a better person. I suppose what it boils down to is having faith in yourself and who you have become. All life has a direction and a purpose and when it comes from an honest place it is beautiful. This is my feeling on this topic.
Blessed be

Re: How do we take control of our destiny?

By discovering who you really are. And why you act the way you do.
Contemplate every choice you make. No matter how silly.

The best is to become to wonder. Whether you would rather like some to sit on your left side, or your right side. It is such an elemental question. Nobody anymore bothers.

Only if you know who you are, and act the way you do, you have any chance in changing the world around you at all…