Break out those vision boards and dream big because September is Self-Improvement Month! While any time can be a great time to make a positive change, a little outside motivation can provide a big boost. So, in the spirit of self-improvement, here are a few ideas to help you make the changes in your life you’ve been wanting!
Write it down. Really!
This advice is so common, and yet so underrated. Study after study has shown that putting a goal down on paper makes it far more likely to be achieved. There are several reasons why this little trick makes such a big difference. For one, putting our desires into words helps us envision what success entails. You may have a vague idea that you want to read more books this year, but once you have a pen in hand, you may ask yourself, “How many books? How long should I read a day?” Hammering out these details makes a goal that much easier to measure and achieve.
Get a little help from your friends
Just because it’s called self-improvement, doesn’t mean you have to do it alone! Friends and family can provide an invaluable support structure as you build towards your goals. Whether they dive in alongside you, or cheer you on over social media, having that extra positive push can do wonders. Just know it’s also okay to set boundaries — you don’t have to post about every up and down on your journey if you don’t want to. Share only as much as you are comfortable with, and only with those who are committed to uplifting you!
Be kind to yourself
While being aware of what we can improve is vital to bettering ourselves, it’s easy to let this awareness go overboard. Holding yourself to an impossible standard makes your goals seem far out of reach, and the road there too unpleasant to follow. We all make mistakes and have off days — having the grace to forgive yourself can be the difference between a steady improvement and throwing in the towel. In tough times, look back on all the positive change and progress you’ve already made. Chances are you’ve accomplished so much more than you’re giving yourself credit for.
Find methods that work for you
A lot has been written on self-improvement — you can find whole shelves dedicated to the subject in libraries and bookstores, and not all the advice is the same. The truth is, what motivates somebody else may not be right for you. That’s why the self-improvement genre is so wide — there’s something for everyone. The key is to do a little research and find the advice that best speak to your experience.
Do you have a favorite motivational book that has inspired you? Share your recommendations in the comments!
Patsy Hawke says
ONE of my favourite self motivational/improvements books is “You Can Heal Your Life” by Louise Hay. I’m on my third time reading it since I came across it in 2002.
Another one would be One Day My Soul Just Opened Up by Iyanla Vanzant.
Both of these books helped me get out of a severe case of Depression and move forward with a happier, more complete life! I truly hope if you’re reading and looking for something to help you that, at least one of these books does the same for you.