Constant and Never Ending Improvement
“It’s gonna be a whole lot of ‘who she think she is?’ in 2020!”
Improving your life usually begins with one big gesture that creates branches of change. Those branches must be constantly tended and nurtured. Its typically those small things which cause the lasting change.
As 2019 comes to a close, let’s reflect on all the goals we set earlier in the year. First, give yourself a pat on the back for all your accomplishments and personal development, but also remember to evaluate areas where you fell short. Self work must be consistent to create the awareness and knowledge to make our lives better.
I have personally accomplished some of my goals this year, but I have areas that I will be working to improve . Here are some of the things I am working on and some ideas help you continue to grow:
Level Up Your Skills
Gain experience to improve your skill set. If you play a sport, strive to be a bit stronger or faster. If you write, you can aim to improve your communication and writing skills, and if you’re a medical professional like myself you can aim to gain more knowledge on certain topics, attend continuing education courses or learn from those with more experience.
Read a book
A personal goal of mine has been to read at least one book per month, which I have managed to do this past year. Books are a concentrated source of wisdom. The more you read, the more you expose yourself to knowledge. Did you know that 20 minutes of daily reading has been linked to brain stimulation and stress reduction? Knowledge is power.
Get out of Your Comfort Zone
You know the saying, smooth seas do not make skillful sailors. Real growth comes with hard work and effort. Being comfortable doesn’t help us grow. Once in a while,do something that scares you. Exposing yourself to a new environment or context makes you grow.
Have an Exercise Routine
I don’t have to go through the many benefits of exercise. Not only does it help with the prevention of disease, reduction of the levels of stress and anxiety but getting a routine takes discipline. It also increases your self-esteem and confidence.
Set BIG Goals
It’s always good to have something to aim for and I love the energy a new year brings. We get motivated, passionate and ready to blaze a trail. Setting big goals raises the level of game you play and develops creativity. You know the saying, aim for the moon, if you miss you will land among the stars.
Learn from People Who Inspire You
Think about people you admire or people who inspire you. These people reflect certain qualities you want to have for yourself. What are the qualities in them you want to have for yourself? How can you acquire these qualities? If possible, reach out and see if they can become a mentor to you.
Learn Public Speaking
Interestingly, public speaking is the #1 fear in the world. I am not very comfortable speaking to large audiences and realize this is something I have to work to improve upon. I am considering Toastmasters. Toastmasters is an international organization that trains people in public speaking.
Stop Complaining
Sometimes you need to vent to let off steam, but complaining for complaining’s sake is counter-productive and can make you feel angry or upset in the process. If you have something to gripe about, follow it up with a constructive solution that will serve to minimise future complaining.
Cultivate a New Habit
It’s not very easy to develop a new habit. On average, it takes more than 2 months before a new behavior becomes automatic — 66 days to be exact. And how long it takes a new habit to form can vary widely depending on the behavior, the person, and the circumstances. What new habits do you need to cultivate? Studies have shown the easiest habits to develop include reading books, waking up early and exercising.
Start a Business Venture
Is there anything you have an interest in? A hobby that you’re passionate about?Why not turn it into a business venture and make money while learning at the same time? Starting a venture requires you to learn business management skills, develop business acumen and gives one a competitive edge.
As 2020 approaches, think about the areas you need to work on and get a head start on them now. Onwards and upwards.
