The most confining limits are usually the ones that you place on yourself. Whether conscious or subconscious, we are all capable of limiting our potential. Most would agree that early life experiences within our families, educational systems, and communities primarily shape us. Even though these life experiences (good and bad) have shaped us, we can continue to grow in our adult lives. This is where personal development comes into the picture.
What Is Personal Development?
I’m glad you asked. In this article, I explain that: According to Wikipedia, “personal development consists of activities that develop a person’s capabilities and potential, build human capital, facilitate employability, and enhance the quality of life and the realization of dreams and aspirations.” Personal development is the bridge that closes the gap between who you are and who you aspire to be. It can strengthen your mind, body, spirit, and bank account. It can take many shapes and forms. However, the centralized message is: You were meant for more, and personal development activities, philosophies, and actions can get you there!
So, how much time have you dedicated to your personal development in the past year? Six months? Week?
Unfortunately, society trains us to put other things first, like education and careers. Both of which are very important in life. However, this article will highlight the importance of investing in your personal growth and improvement.
Let’s discuss the reasons why personal growth matters. As you’ll find out below, it makes up a considerable chunk of your life as a whole, no matter how old you are.
So, please don’t ignore it.
What Is Personal Growth?
Personal growth starts will the internal drive to improve your life. Yes, it includes goal setting and achievement. However, it is much more.
The process starts with a positive mindset. That helps boost your resilience and keeps you going, even when things don’t go your way. We live in a world where things will not always go your way. Instead of focusing on the “thing” (what you probably can’t change), try focusing on yourself (what you probably can change).
The beauty of personal growth is that it’s subjective. It’s different for everyone, like success.
Some people define being successful as having a happy, healthy family. Others describe it as having a career, maybe having more money than they know what to do with.
Even though personal growth is a bit more elusive, it’s all about improving as an individual. This can be anything from polishing up your education or refining your temperament. Whatever it is you’re seeking in life, that becomes your growth journey.
Because it’s so diverse and covers so many aspects, it goes by several names, including:
- Self-improvement
- Personal development
- Self-growth
- Self-help
Why Does Personal Growth Matter?
Now that we understand what personal growth is, you can see how it can positively affect someone. Then, without even trying, that person will motivate others to work harder and do better.
So, personal growth isn’t a solitary journey. By setting an example, you take others along. Yes, you do the hard work. Yet, you reap so many rewards that you quickly realize it was all worth it.
Developing yourself will help you in various aspects of your life. You’ll shine at work, and you’ll notice people will start to praise your accomplishments.
You’ll also grow into a more compassionate and loving person. Listening and being attentive will come naturally. You’ll feel good about yourself, and you’ll make others feel good as well.
How to Start Your Growth Journey
Beware, empathy, and positive thinking are two traits we seem to lose over the years without realizing it. Personal growth can help you get them back.
Here are some ways to begin achieving personal growth.
Set Short-Term Goals
One of the first steps towards personal growth is setting and achieving short-term goals. When creating goals, keep the following in mind:
- Make your goals realistic
- Divide long-term goals into several short-term ones
- Write each plan on a Post-It and hang it on your desk or bathroom mirror
- Recognize and accept your strengths and weaknesses
- Treat yourself to something nice every time you complete one of your goals
Keep Learning
You are never too old to learn something new. Keep an open mind and step out of your comfort zone, and you’ll find interesting topics to learn about—endeavor to expand your knowledge beyond those topics that provide you with a safety net. Try launching deep and understanding about a new hobby or skill that fascinates you. Flyfishing, anyone?
Ask any successful entrepreneur; they’ll tell you they never stop learning. Their curiosity and fascination with the world keep them ahead of everyone else.
The key is to find something that piques your interest. In this day and age, where everything is evolving quickly, there’s no shortage.
What makes you happy? Find what makes you giddy with happiness, aka your purpose in life.
Each one of us has something that drives us and sets us apart from everyone else. Find what that is and go after it.
You can always learn even if you don’t know much about it. Thanks to modern-day technology, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Wake Up Earlier
Healthy sleep patterns will regulate your physical, emotional, and mental states. You’ll feel more energized and ready to tackle the day ahead.
Studies show that people who wake up early are healthier, happier, and more productive. It may take some time to get used to, but you’ll never return once you do!
Read More
Thanks to our ever-present smartphones, many of us have given up on reading. You can start the habit of reading a little bit each day, even if you read just one blog post a day.
Acquiring knowledge is hugely satisfying. You feel competent and just plain good. Reading is one of the most accessible and enjoyable ways to boost self-confidence and enhance personal growth.
Practice Self-Acceptance
Knowing what your talents and skills are, is a vital part of self-acceptance. It’s also just as important to recognize the areas where you’re not as strong.
Be confident in your accomplishments and forgive yourself for past mistakes. That’s the first step to accepting who you are and fully realizing your true worth.
We’re all here for a reason. Take the time to find out what yours is.
A Final Note
It is understanding why personal growth matters are like understanding one of the most profound secrets of life. It can mean the difference between being happy, hopeful, and fulfilled or feeling sad and lost.
Of course, no one wakes up saying, “I want to be miserable.” It requires hard work and dedication. But, without a watchful eye, it can happen.
You have to have a positive outlook and accept yourself for who you are. Only then can you unlock your true potential, which I have no doubt, will be amazing!
Be well + prosper,
Elaine xx
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