Answer: Gandhiji's words mean that instead of waiting for others or blaming them, we should ourselves start the change we wish to see in society.
Expansion of the theme
We often complain about dirty streets, corruption, wastage of water or rude behaviour, and expect the government or other people to set things right. Mahatma Gandhi reminds us that real change begins with the individual. If we want a clean city, we must first stop littering ourselves. If we want honesty in society, we must be honest in our own small dealings. If we want peace, we must first be calm and tolerant in our own homes.
Gandhiji lived by this principle. He spun his own khadi, cleaned toilets himself and followed non-violence in his own life before asking the nation to do so. That is why millions trusted and followed him.
When one person changes, others notice and are inspired. A student who switches off unused fans and lights, or helps a weaker classmate, sets an example for friends and family. In this way a small personal step spreads and grows into a social movement.
Thus the quotation teaches self-reform, responsibility and leading by example. Change in the world starts with change in ourselves.