Let’s just preface today’s post with a little note that I am, in no means, an expert in the field of “bettering oneself,” although I’m not sure what would really classify someone as an expert in that? Maybe some type of life coach certification or something. But, that being said, I think that most of finding a “good” life is in the attitude you have on it. Sure, there is some luck and chance and big decisions thrown in there, but at the end of the day, it really just comes down to how you look at life. How do you look at the losses, the wins, the failures, the mistakes. And, I’m also a strong believer, that you can change a situation BASED on this attitude. The biggest difference between an ordeal and an adventure is your attitude.
1. Create an intention. Get started on ONE goal.
Choose one goal to work on at a time. It may be one goal that’s part of a series of goals to get you to an overarching goal. Say your ultimate goal is to open your own business, split this into smaller, attainable goals you can work on on a daily basis: write a business plan, take a class, find a mentor, start saving money, etc.
2. Motivate yourself.
Speaking of goals….motivation is a mindset. After a long day at your day job, a list of household chores and errands, and other to do’s, all you want to do when you get home is lounge all night and drink wine. And, while making time to relax IS very important, remember you have to work for your goals. I don’t believe that “good things come to those who wait” (unless you’re referring to dinner at some delicious restaurant). Good things come to those who work for it.
3. Invest in yourself.
Investing in yourself is never a loss – you’re guaranteed to get a return on your investment in every way possible. Sign up for an online course, self-study with a great guidebook, seek out a mentor, etc.
4. Be optimistic.
Ever hear the saying “whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right” ? That’s because if you think you can’t, you won’t. If you think you can, and you are optimistic, you’re more likely to succeed. Even if things don’t go how you expect or plan, stay optimistic about the future.
5. Don’t dwell on the past.
Going along with number four, there is nothing worse than spending time dwelling on things past. Unless you’re reflecting to learn about it, you can’t change the past. It’s better to say, “what can I do moving forward to fix this?” or “what can I learn from this?”
6. Pay it Forward.
Put good into the world, get good back, ’nuff said.
7. Indulge.
Don’t feel bad about indulging sometimes – for reals what’s the point of life if you don’t have your cake AND eat it too (and I’m actually talking about cake, it’s delicious and should almost NEVER be turned down.) This also applies to occasional days of doing absolutely nothing, saving up to get yourself something fancy, and buying the nice bottle every once in a while.
8. Write it down.
Sometimes taking the time to write things down can put it into perspective and make you feel accountable. Write down goals and the steps you need to get there.
9. Stop comparing yourself to other.
This is such a loaded step, but seriously.. STOP IT. It’s natural, we ALL do it, and it can’t just be turned off. But next time you find yourself comparing yourself to someone else in dismay, remind yourself about what you have going for yourself that’s good. It may feel pompous, but when I get down from comparing myself to others I’m like, “Kallie, stop the sulking, there are people out there jealous of your _____ and _____.” Additionally, if I WANT to compare, I only compare myself to the person I was yesterday.
10. Make time for yourself.
Sometimes life feels like all you’re doing is managing time, but make time to give back to yourself whether it’s an hour at the gym a few times a week, a long walk on your lunch breaks, 30 minutes on Sundays for a face and hair mask, your bi-weekly nail salon trips. These things might seem petty or small, but they are important to help you reset, reflect, and recharge.
What are some things you do to better yourself?