Self-improvement is something that can be applied to all areas of your life and your focus can change over time. Self-improvement is constant, and you need to be willing to put in the time and effort to achieve long term success.
One of the first steps you need to take is to acknowledge where you want to be, how you can improve and how you’re going to do it. Quick fixes don’t work long term. As an individual, these ideas will help you identify how to get started with your self-improvement. If you are a leader within a business or manage a team, these ideas will help you to create a working environment that encourages continuous improvement.
Development in your career
For most of us, excelling in our chosen careers is a lifelong goal we are always striving to achieve. There is a wealth of knowledge available online, but gaining recognised qualifications is key to self-improvement on the career side of things. Often, employers will ask for certain qualifications as a minimum requirement for a position. If you want the job, you need the qualification. If you want to change your career, gain valuable experience or improve your skills, we have a range of courses available. From Management and Leadership with Manager Training to IT and Project Management with ITonlinelearning, we can help you take the next steps to self-improvement.
Be realistic
Choosing big, unattainable goals is a recipe for disappointment. They can be demotivating once you realise you won’t be able to achieve them. Then you’re back to square one. Instead, focus on small goals that are measurable and realistic. Hitting your targets will give you a huge boost of motivation and you’ll see the improvements for yourself. The changes or goals need to be sustainable so be honest with yourself and be accountable for making them happen.
Be specific
You can’t score if you don’t know where the goalposts are. When thinking about self-improvement, be as specific as you can. For example, if your goal is to ‘get a promotion’, change it to ‘complete my PRINCE2 qualification so I can become eligible for a promotion’. Being specific means your goals are clearer and you’ll be more likely to stick with them.
Be consistent
Consistency is key. You need to keep going with whatever you’re doing to make a success of it. It won’t always be plain sailing, but there are always opportunities to learn on a professional and personal level. Remember that big wins are an accumulation of little wins over time, so just keep swimming.
Be open to new things
Making just a few small improvements can make a huge difference. They will give you the motivation to keep going and move on to bigger changes down the line. It’s not unusual to get stuck in a rut, but being open to new things will help you shake things up and start your self-improvement journey. Here are a few things you can try today, that will benefit you tomorrow and for the days, weeks and years ahead.
- Exercise
Exercise releases endorphins and gets you ready for the day ahead. Exercise can help to clear your head, reduce anxiety and improve your mental health. You don’t have to run a marathon. A simple walk can do the trick. Do what you’re comfortable with and build over time.
- Journaling
Write down your goals for the day or simply get your thoughts and feelings down on paper. Planning out your day can help you feel more organised and in control, even on your busiest days.
- Meditation
Taking just 10 minutes a day to meditate, do breathing exercises, and visualise your goals will make a huge difference. Check in with yourself throughout the day to keep your mind clear and on track. There are some great apps out there to help guide you.
So, what is the key to self-improvement success? The truth is it’s different for everyone. What works for one, may not work for another. Self-improvement isn’t going to happen overnight. Make sure you allow enough time for your new habits to kick in. Allow yourself time to adjust to the positive changes you are making. Don’t worry too much about getting it right and focus on what is right for you.
If you’d like to find out more about the range of courses we offer at Manager Training, get in touch with our expert team who will answer any questions you have.