Human beings are the most adaptive creatures. They adapt to their surroundings, to the beliefs they are taught from childhood, and to the way they are brought up.
Unfortunately, whatever you have learned from the beginning may not be enough. As we have dynamic natures, we need to grow and develop both physically and mentally. This process of self-development is continuous. Our physical growth is automated, but to grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, requires conscious effort. However, this effort of making oneself better in every possible way is necessary to achieve success and happiness in life.
The world has witnessed numerous cases of self-development and growth of people who started literally with nothing but ended up changing their lives and the lives of millions around them.
Nevertheless, personal growth is not only for those who have bigger dreams or want to go against all the odds to change the whole scenario of the world; personal growth is necessary for every individual so that no matter what their dreams are, or what achievement they seek, they can achieve it making themselves exceed.
1. Know yourself
The first step towards personal growth is self-awareness. You need to understand your weaknesses and strengths so that you can conquer the weaknesses utilizing your strengths.
Comprehending skills and talents in a practical way is very important to improve yourself as then one can understand on which grounds to work on.
2. Have a vision
Have a clear goal and a vision to achieve that goal and then work hard for it. To make yourself better, you first need to understand on what grounds you need to work. Even if you are lost and have no clear idea at the moment, still keep a vision to strive for it and make a difference.
3. Think out of the box
Self-development and being narrow-minded or naive do not go together. You need to broaden your thinking spectrum and be receptive to new ideas so that you can create and practice something which you own.
4. Be passionate
Passion is the key. If you need to be better tomorrow than you are right now, you need passion and enthusiasm for it.
The urge and eagerness to make your life better, to be at the place you desire, and to fulfill your dreams, all require intense committment.
5. Read autobiographies
Reading is helpful in many ways. As popularly said, “books are a man’s best friend”. They allow you to actually practice the above-mentioned points.
Books help you to broaden your spectrum, ignite your passion, help you to set a goal and will increase self-confidence by increasing your knowledge.
Read autobiographies of famous people who made it to their goals among all the odds. There is always a lot to learn from the experiences of others, so read about your idols and try to adapt their approach towards life. Implement the ideas they preach and gradually improve yourself.
6. Have a positive attitude and mindset
You need to be practical and realistic and understand that you may not get all you want in a jiffy. There will be failures, setbacks, and scams. You will have all kinds of experiences but avoid being negative about any of them, no matter the situation.
Stay positive, and believe in yourself. If you do not have a positive mindset right now, work on developing it. Do not react to failures or difficult situations but do not accept them either. Remind yourself constantly that you have to make yourself better to make your life better.
7. Respect diversity of opinion
We come across many people in our daily life; some we like and some we don’t. We may have a conflict of interests, opinions, approaches, and school of thoughts. However, accept the other person’s right to have a different opinion or approach than yours.
Respect the diversity, the differences and the attitudes of all who are around you or anywhere in the world. Do not let any negative emotion get the best of you.
8. Be open for learning
Learning and acquiring knowledge is not a one-time process; it is a continuous practice. Be open to learn and unlearn new things every day. Be receptive to new concepts, practices or skills.
When you feel that a piece of knowledge that you believed or have been practicing all your life, is not correct, unlearn it and opt for a better version. The learning process will increase your skill base, knowledge and will open doors to new opportunities.
9. Take care of yourself
There is a very popular saying that “one cannot pour out of an empty vessel”.
To be somewhere, to achieve your aims, and to fulfill your dreams, the foremost thing to do is to take care of your health, appearance, and fitness.
If you lack in any area, work for it as without health and fitness your self-development will be incomplete.
