Brenda

The road to self improvement can often be difficult and we may find ourselves not knowing where to begin. It’s hard to know if we’re doing the right thing, at the right time, yet we keep going in hopes that we will guide ourselves in the right direction. I have compiled some of my best tips to help in your personal growth journey. Some of them are simple steps in which you can engage in immediately, while others are bigger steps which take a more conscious effort to act on.

1. Read a book everyday

Books are concentrated sources of wisdom. The more books you read, the more wisdom you expose yourself to. Some of my favorite books that I have come across and have recommended to others are The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey, Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson, and Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by David D. Burns.

2. Let go of the past

Now is the time to let go. Letting go can be difficult. Letting go of people, unhealthy relationships, expectations, desires, ideas… the list goes on. Every day, every moment presents an opportunity to create ourselves anew, to shrug off the baggage of the past, open ourselves up to the possibility of the moment and take action to create an incredible future.

3. Unplug from social media

Last year I decided it would be a good idea to get rid of all social media accounts for a period of time and it was the best decision I have ever made. I found myself becoming immersed in follower requests, messages, likes, and friend updates. I was so focused on others and how I portrayed myself on social media that I slowly realized I was wasting my time by being so consumed in media, and getting less real things done. Even if you don’t get rid of all social media completely, unplug from social media at least once a week or for a few hours each day.

4. Learn to laugh at situations that would normally make you angry

Laughter is truly the best medicine. We realize that in life, things may not always work out the way we wanted them to, or expected to, but we must work with the cards we are dealt. Not everything has to be taken as a serious or frustrating issue. Take it easy and live lightly!

5. Get yourself a journal

The simple act of journaling has the ability to change your life. It provides you with clarity and organization, which in turn, aids you in realizing your dreams and desires. By journaling, negative emotions can pass through your writing without them feeling like a permanent obstacle.