Self-Improvement Techniques to Achieve Positive Change

Written by Emily Ferreira on May 30, 2008 9:26 am EST

1. Challenge Yourself. By this I mean set a challenging goal to accomplish in the near future, whether it may be a personal goal or one associated with your career or education. Choose something that excites you (yes, this can apply to your job!) and use a mixture of enthusiasm and effort to work towards your target. The feeling of defeating an intricate task that took a significant amount of effort to overcome is priceless and is proven to enhance an individual’s self-worth. When I was younger my mom always repeated the famous quote “Wherever there’s a will, there’s a way” and to this day, I apply this theory in my everyday thinking, especially when it comes to goal attainment.

2. Stay Positive. I can’t even stress the importance of having an optimistic way of thinking and positive outlook on life. One cannot achieve goals without practicing positivity throughout the process, especially in the tough times.

3. Map it Out. If practical, strategically write out a step-by-step list of tasks/activities that need to be done in order of importance and the amount of time it will take to achieve your goals. Make sure to use this stepping-stone list to stay on the right path towards the target.

4. Natural Brain Boosters. Ginkgo Biloba, a popular natural supplement originating in the Far East, has been used for centuries and is now prescribed by health professional to enhance memory. Ginkgo Biloba is excellent to enhance focus and alertness of the brain. This natural supplement may be a good aid for individuals on intellectual pursuits who need to retain focus.

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5. Stay on Track. When working on a project, reading a book, or listening to a speech, it is very important to stay focused and submerge yourself into the task at hand. This is especially vital when it will help you to more effectively attain your objectives. Avoid walking away from the project for too long, or attempting to watch TV while studying for an exam. Focus 100% of your attention into the project and you will be a more effective learner.

6. Experience = Wisdom. Remember that experience teaches wisdom, and one essential way to become an expert in a specific field is through dedicated and patient learning. I’ve come into contact with too many people that simply do not have the patience to sit and learn. They want to know it all upfront, which unfortunately my friend is just not possible. They may jump from job to job, or constantly switch their major in college thinking that it will get better but it never seems to work out that way. The best advice I can give is to have patience, sit and listen, and stay positive. This can help you to start seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.

7. Track Your Experiences. Use a journal to keep note of your thoughts and experiences. Track the date and, even time, that specific events take place. This is a great way to keep tabs of your learning process.

8. Give Yourself Some Credit. The creation of useful ideas and attainment of goals are definitely things to feel proud of. Always remember to recognize your accomplishments and give yourself a little praise!

9. Challenge The Experts. Don’t be afraid to question the beliefs and proclamations of specialists and professionals in a specific field. Just like homosexuality was once believed to be a mental disorder classified under the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, and years later it was then removed from this classification as evidence proved no such relation, we cannot believe 100% what all “experts” say. If you firmly and realistically believe in something then don’t be afraid to challenge those that speak against it. Your opinion may have just as much validity as theirs.

10. And last but not least…Be Brave!

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Humor is definitely good too!!

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9 Responses to “Self-Improvement Techniques to Achieve Positive Change”

SK Says:
May 30th, 2008 at 11:29 am
Know Yourself first, Self Image as we would not act outside of our self image.
Peter Says:
May 30th, 2008 at 7:53 pm
Great article Emily, and one that I think many of us in the rush of our day-to-day lives are easy to overlook.

I have just finished reading a great book on self motivation and following your dreams that you may be interested in having a look at. It’s by Bob and Mel Blanchard, called “Live What Your Love”, and it relates to what you’ve written here in that it’s all about improving yourself to get what you want out of life. Sure, we might be able to take the time to train your brain to be happier with what we’ve got now, but personally I’d much rather learn how to go about achieving my dreams than try and learn to be complacent with what I have.
juicebox Says:
May 30th, 2008 at 11:10 pm
Awesome blog Emily. I’d also like to mention a supplement I take daily for a natural brain booster.

It’s called 5-HTP, and has been used by years by doctors to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Unfortunately the supplement was banned for some years while the “designer drugs” of depression and anxiety came out.

5-HTP, which used for depression and anxiety, can also be used for stress control, anger control, and as a general mood enhancement.

5-HTP is a pre-form of seratonin, the chemical in the brain that makes us happy, pleased, excited. When combined with a B Complex, it forms seratonin.
Emily Ferreira Says:
June 2nd, 2008 at 8:44 am
Peter, thanks for the advice. I will look into it further but it’s always great to hear about a good read, especially in terms of self-improvement and the betterment of ourselves. We should always strive for the unsurpassed (physically, intellectually, etc.) instead of settling for bare minimum. Much appreciated Peter!!
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Juicebox, you’re right 5-HTP is an excellent natural supplement as well. I’ve actually tried it years ago in college to help prevent me from getting the nerves before presentations and speeches in front of large audiences. It indeed gives off a calming-effect and helps with anxiety. Great recommendation!
Lydia Says:
June 5th, 2008 at 6:22 pm
Emily,

I really enjoyed this article. Well developed and presented. I especially agree with number 9 - too many times we hold back because we are intimidated by others. Of course my favorite is number 10 - a good sense of humor gets us thru the tough times but more importantly helps us enjoy the everyday moments of our life.

ENJOY YOUR MOMENTS!

Great job!

Lydia
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March 30th, 2010 at 11:13 am
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