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A New You, Inside and Out: Self-Improvement Ideas for 2021
Blog post by Gabriel Patel of HealthWellWise.com
During the first few months of each year, people take stock of their lives and of where they want to take them and are reminded that self-improvement is a never-ending process. Usually, they’ve made a New Year’s resolution (or resolutions) and a move toward self-improvement that’s defined pretty narrowly — something like weight loss or a promotion. There’s nothing wrong with getting in shape or pursuing external goals, of course. However, self-improvement should also reflect internal change and lead to moral and spiritual growth. As you set goals for this year, consider seeking a broader perspective on life too.
Health and self-care
This is a surprisingly easy goal to overlook. Many people simply take their health for granted until problems such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure arise. It’s important that you get enough sleep (seven to eight hours a night); eat healthy foods, including vegetables, fruit and whole grains; and take time to exercise on a regular basis (at least 30 minutes a day).
This year, consider an exercise plan that will help reduce your stress. Try new activities, like yoga and meditation, that have mental benefits in addition to physical ones. Find a program or course you can follow online, from home. In addition to helping you stay COVID safe, it may also increase the likelihood you’ll stick with your resolution. If you don’t know where to start, consult a local personal trainer.
Work on your professional profile
Many people swear this will be the year they’ll find a better job or get that promotion they’ve been working toward. If that’s one of your objectives, start by upgrading and improving your portfolio and resume. Your resume is your unofficial introduction to prospective employers, so it needs to be concise, informative without being too detailed, and free of errors. Try looking at yours with a critical eye. Clarify job descriptions that sound awkward and correct any typos or factual mistakes.
But what if you are unhappy with your position or the work you do? You may want to stop pursuing a promotion and start rethinking your career path instead. For many people, that means becoming an entrepreneur. Whether you want to turn a hobby into a business, or you have a more technical skill set that you could monetize, there has never been a better time to become your own boss. To make a great impression on your first customers, establish yourself as a professional with a memorable name, informative website, and, of course, fantastic service. You’ll also need to make sure that you register your business with the state of Kansas as an LLC. An online formation service can help you with this task!
Grow your soul
There are many ways to seek personal growth. Some people devote themselves to charitable work, some mentor disadvantaged children, while others volunteer for civic improvement initiatives. Helping others can definitely expand your perspective on life and teach you that everyone is worthy of a chance. Think of it as growing by helping other people grow and succeed. Adopting a philanthropic mindset can help you feel good about yourself and help you find an inner peace you can’t get from buying the latest smartphone or hottest basketball shoes.
This year, take a more expansive view of self-improvement. A slimmer figure will get you noticed, but this year, try combining physical changes with a commitment to some philanthropic initiative. You’ll feel good inside and outside.