September is Self-Improvement Month, but why put off working on yourself until next September 1st? You can start your own month of radical self-improvement whenever you want! Here are 10 things you can do to make a positive, lasting change in your life. Try working toward at least one of these things every day for the next 30 days, and get ready to see some incredible changes in your life.
1. Write down your goals.
What are the big things you want to accomplish in your life? If you had the life of your dreams, what would it look like? Write down your top three big goals in your life and keep them somewhere where you can reference them often for motivation. Think about how your daily activities contribute to your ability to reach your goals.
Don’t know what your goals are? All the more reason to think about them and write them down. After all, how can you ever get what you want if you don’t know what it is?
2. Get active.
Getting more exercise is good for your body, plus exercise releases endorphins that make you happier. Whether you opt to learn to dance, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or run for 20 minutes each day, adding more activity into your routine will put you into a positive mindset.
3. Read every day.
Instead of watching TV or looking at gossip on the Internet, take some time every day to read something worthwhile. Subscribe to a blog related to your profession, pick up a classic novel, or dig into a book about self-improvement. Reading can totally shift your perspective and open up doors to new ways of seeing the world.
4. Learn a new language.
Learning a new language has many benefits beyond just helping you to communicate. From looking great on your resume to improving brain function, learning a new language is a great way to improve yourself. There are tons of resources out there that make learning a new language accessible, from software and DVDs to language lessons with a private tutor.
5. Take up a new hobby.
Is there something you’ve always wanted to try? Whether you wish you knew how to play the piano, want to learn coding, or want to learn how to bake a perfect cupcake, digging into a new hobby can help awaken your passion for life. Additionally, you’ll build up your confidence as you learn new things and discover abilities you never knew you had.
6. Sharpen your skills.
What are a few of the things that you do really well? When did you last put time and energy into building more on those skills? You can always keep getting better at something you already have a knack for, and improving on your skills can give you an edge at work or school.
7. Make a to-do list.
Start each day by making a list of the three most important things you must get done today. Don’t worry so much about trying to do everything. As long as you get through the really important things, you’ll feel accomplished and less stressed.
8. Take time to unplug.
Has it been a while since you took a break? We all need time to relax and rest thanks to our super busy always-on culture. Take trip to a new place or plan a mellow staycation. If you can’t afford a getaway, or if you just want to incorporate more relaxation into your routine, try practicing yoga or meditation. Give yourself some time to unplug and you’ll come back to your work and relationships feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
9. Do some soul searching.
Are you holding onto negative emotions? Learning to forgive others and yourself for painful things in the past will make you feel freer and lighter. You might consider talking with a counselor or a life coach to help you break free of anxiety, depression, resentment, and other unhealthy thought patterns.
10. Spend more quality time with your loved ones.
Find ways to get closer to the most important people in your life. Whether you learn to dance with your significant other, help a parent around the house, or read to your kids more often, strengthening your bonds with your loved ones will make you feel happier and more loved in return.
How do you want to improve your life? Share one thing big or small you’d like to change in the comments below!
Megan L.