6 Science-Based Self-Improvement Tips

"When we start thinking about self-improvement, it can be helpful to be strategic about where we put our efforts so we don't waste time on the wrong things. Some aspects of ourselves are relatively changeable and some aspects are pretty fixed. So, we're best served by focusing our efforts on the parts of us that are the most changeable.

To begin our self-improvement journey, here are some tips to try:

1. Engage in self-reflection.

Without self-reflection, we may not have a clear self-concept—that is, how we see ourselves may not match how others see us. By engaging in self-reflection, we can better understand the areas of ourselves that we might want to improve.

2. Try mindfulness.

​Mindfulness is the act of bringing attention to the experience of each moment. It also involves an attitude of curiosity and acceptance (versus judgment) and seeing thoughts and emotions as transient states.

3. Cultivate a growth mindset.

If we have the belief that we can improve, we're more likely to put in the effort actually required to learn and grow.

4. Acknowledge feelings of shame.

The truth is that many of us have the motivation to engage in self-improvement due to societal pressures, external expectations, or even shame about not being good enough in some areas. But if we strive to improve ourselves simply to please others, we are likely to end up feeling unsatisfied, even if we succeed in our self-improvement goals.

5. Build reappraisal skills.

​Reappraisal is an emotion regulation strategy that can help us reinterpret stressful situations in more positive ways that help us reduce negative emotions and increase positive emotions.

6. Find and use your strengths.

When we aim to improve ourselves, we often focus on our weaknesses—the things we may not do as well as we would like to. But building on our strengths can also be a good idea—it can help us become masterful in our existing abilities."

Read the complete article available at Psychology Today!

Reflection:

Do you do these self-improvement practices? Has it helped you be your best self?

#SelfImprovement #SelfEsteem #EmotionalRegulation