How do we start to become the better version of ourselves? Well, it is important to identify what constitutes real self-improvement, as it can be easy to get caught up in the hype of the latest self-help trend or to pursue goals that are not truly aligned with our values and desires.
One way to identify real self improvement is to focus on self-awareness. This involves taking the time to understand ourselves, including our strengths, weaknesses, values, and goals. By doing so, we can better identify areas where we need to grow and areas where we may be trying to improve simply because society or others expect us to.
Meaningful and achievable goals means setting goals that are aligned with our values and are truly motivated to pursue them. Setting goals that are realistic and within arm’s reach. That way, they’re still meaningful and achievable, but also totally doable. Plus, when you set goals that align with your values, you’ll be motivated to work towards them with purpose and passion.
OK, example, let’s say your goal is to run a marathon. Well, that is a pretty big undertaking, but let’s say you break it down into smaller, more manageable goals (like running a 5K, then a 10K, and so on), you’ll be able to see progress and stay motivated along the way. And before you know it, you’ll be crossing that marathon finish line with a sense of accomplishment and pride.
It is important to identify that self improvement is a continuous process, similar to the ‘Kaizen’ concept, and not a destination. We will never be “perfect,” and that is okay. The key is to continually work on ourselves and strive to become the best version of ourselves at all times.
It is also important to remember that self-improvement is not about perfection, but about personal growth and fulfilment. By focusing on our own journey and not comparing ourselves to others which we can naturally find ourselves doing. We can find joy and satisfaction in the process of self-improvement.
So as we all start the year 2023, let’s face it, it is not going to magically be a year of full optimism after going through what we have all gone through since 2020. But don’t let that stop you. Let’s challenge ourselves and each other to see how far we can develop ourselves in the coming 12 months
Real self improvement involves self-awareness, setting meaningful and achievable goals, and always remembering that it is a continuous process.
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