To improve or not to improve?
That is the question
So what?
I’m not certain of the statistics on this but there are those that constantly seek to improve themselves and those that are not into personal development. I’m not here to pass judgement on one or the other, tell you who is better and what you should do. This post discusses the benefits of each type of people. I’m a sucker for podcasts on personal development and reading books on such during my free time whereas my lovely wife enjoys life as it is. and I consider her to be a better person than me in more ways than not.
There are benefits that overlap and the either lists aren’t meant to make you feel bad about yourself or convince you one way or another. Have an open mindset when you’re reading through the lists. They will at least make you feel better about yourself whichever type you are.
Self improvement
- Confidence in how you feel about yourself and how much you trust yourself in accomplishing specific tasks;
- Control of your stress level through better skills;
- Clarification with your goals by having sense of direct in what you’re trying to improve;
- Inspire others to take the learning journey with you;
- Create life and career opportunities by expanding your knowledge and experience in various facets; and
- Feeling empowered by strengthening yourself and not settle with who and how you are.
Self relaxation
- Having time to be present and being aware of your environment;
- Being content with yourself by not comparing yourself to others;
- Relate to your loved ones and friends by being relatable and receptive;
- Having patience with yourself and those around you through accepting who and how you and they are and letting things be;
- Developing health standards in yourself and others by being compassionate of and understanding everyone’s weaknesses; and
- Ability to take action when required rather than passively learning.
My experience
As I have alluded to before, I’m heavily into personal development whereas my better half would rather relax and enjoy life for what it is. Whichever side of the fence you’re on, you need both in life. I spend way too much time listening to podcasts and reading books as I’m constantly trying to better myself. My wife regulates me and brings me back to earth. When she wants to learn or do something that she is not confident with, she comes to me for advice and help on getting it done. By being at the opposite ends of the spectrum, we’re able to leverage each other to have a balanced, meaningful life.
What now?
- Which one are you? Are you like me who likes to fill their playlists with personal development podcasts or like my wife who would rather relax and be present?
- Whichever side you’re on, make sure to have balance in what you do.