Four Hacks for Becoming Your Best Self

"Here are four tips for discovering and cultivating our best selves:

1. Develop your natural tendencies

We are born with a unique array of personality traits that, when understood and intentionally developed, can be used to improve our lives. Having self-awareness of our natural tendencies can help us succeed with less energy and effort. Research shows strengths optimization has an impact on an organization's bottom line, and for your success and well-being (Aspuland & Blacksmith, 2011, Park, 2004).Identify and experiment with ways to live your life in greater keeping with your values. Cultivating such practices regularly eventually becomes a habit that will help you become authentically self-actualized.

2. Cultivate meaning through purpose

Meaning and purpose are other critical facets of a satisfying life, according to happiness researchers (Seligman, 2002, Peterson, 2005). We all have a different sense of what’s most meaningful to us; it’s important to pay attention to what feels most satisfying. Pausing to reflect on rewarding or touching experiences can help us become more attuned to finding our path toward a meaningful life.

Also, according to hero researcher Scott Allison, noticing what stories or movies feel most moving to us can also provide clues as to what challenges feel most deeply resonant (personal communication). In addition, being open to new ideas and experiences could help us connect to our heart’s work.

3. Follow your heart and energy

To create a happy heart and energized body, wherever possible we should pursue activities that cause happiness, joy, satisfaction, and excitement, and are energizing and engaging. Using and building on our natural tendencies while in pursuit of meaningful activities is a powerful way to feel fully alive and engaged.

4. Embrace openness and evolution

Eurich suggests that self-awareness can be harder for highly experienced professionals and experts because of overconfidence. Therefore, embracing openness and a willingness to change our minds, take in new information about ourselves, and apply it to our learning and growth, can enable continuous improvement in self-awareness with respect to both our inner and outer worlds. Leveraging the many excellent resources online, in bookstores, podcasts, classes, and workshops is a great way to avoid reinventing the wheel in this important personal and professional area. Find the right resources and support and continue to evolve. The benefits will serve you for years to come."

Read the complete article available at Psychology Today!

Reflection:

What does your 'best self' look like to you?

#Self-reflection #Self-improvement #Purpose