Imagine this: you’re in a group of ten people. Everyone goes around in a circle and shares something they love about themselves. The catch is that you can’t say the same thing as anyone else. What would you say?
Some people would talk about their personalities, talents, or hobbies. You might have something right off the top of your head, but some people might freeze and struggle with this. Especially since you can’t say the same thing as someone else, you must name something unique about yourself.
If this person is you, I kindly invite you on the self-improvement journey. This journey is more than a week or month; it’s a lifelong mission you’ll partake in from start to finish. On the self-improvement journey, you’ll be able to overcome some of your struggles of porn addiction, poor health, and lack of confidence. You’ll replace these struggles with skills, including discipline, time management, and patience, which will pivot you toward success.
If you’re new to self-improvement and unsure where to start, here are six pillars to kickstart your journey. Remember that these six pillars are the areas where you must continue growing. Self-improvement is all about bettering yourself in all areas.
1. Physique
The first and perhaps most significant pillar of self-improvement is your physical health. Most people underestimate the significance of exercise because their first instinct is to think about the health benefits. Health benefits alone make exercise a nonnegotiable, but exercise serves us more than just our health. It increases energy and productivity and makes your first impression stand out.
In a survey known as NHANES by the NCHS, data found that 42.4% of adults in the US are overweight.
When you’re physically in shape, you feel confident and proud of your body. More importantly, consistent exercise establishes the foundation of discipline, which allows you to improve in other areas. Transforming your physique involves lifting heavy weights while eating more to gain weight or eating less to lose weight. Exercise should be a regular habit just like how we breathe air, and the best time to start is now.
Being in shape makes you feel confident and proud of yourself. More importantly, consistent exercise establishes the foundation of discipline, which translates to your other endeavors.
Transforming your physique involves lifting heavy weights while eating more to gain weight or eating less to lose weight. Just like how we naturally breathe air, we should naturally be moving our bodies. It takes time to see results, but the earlier you start, the earlier you see results.
Are you a beginner starting to work out? Here’s a free gym guide to guide your first day at the gym!
2. Mindfulness/Mental Health
Your physical health is vital, but so is your mental health. These two areas are both counterparts; your physical health is the peanut butter, while your mental health is the jelly.
The best way to improve your mental health is by making meditation a daily habit. Consistent meditation teaches you how to breathe rightfully and become present in the moment. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or stress, incorporating meditation into your daily routine is never a bad idea. It improves your mental health by helping you relax and stay calm, thus alleviating any stress or anxiety.
3. Knowledge
“Knowledge is power.”
– Francis Bacon (1597)
It’s remarkable how a phrase coined by Francis Bacon in 1597 still resonates with society 400 years later. The more knowledge you have, the more expertise you gain within your field of study.
Whether you aspire to become an engineer or accountant, making it a habit to spend at least 30 minutes in your area of interest every day will skyrocket your growth. Acquiring knowledge doesn’t have to be only through books and research. It can involve spending time practicing or networking with an expert.
4. Appearance
First impression matters; therefore, you should make an effort to look your best each time you step outside of your home. An outstanding first impression increases the chances of other people remembering you, which could lead to job opportunities or internships.
Taking care of your appearance involves everything, including practicing good hygiene, trimming your hair, and putting on a nice outfit. Taking proper care of your appearance sparks that light of confidence within you, which many will admire.
5. Charisma/Personality
Becoming the best version of yourself also involves communication skills and how you carry yourself. Talking, smiling, and maintaining eye contact build charisma, making you a more admirable person.
It’s also worth noting becoming your best version also means reshaping your personality in a way that people will appreciate. Be kind, offer a compliment when appropriate, and be there for those that need help. Nobody wants to be around someone who insults and brings others down.
6. Goals/Finance
What’s the difference between a happy and unhappy person? The life of a happy person tends to consist of goals and achievements. On the other hand, someone living a miserable life decides they don’t want to set goals and take action toward them.
Having goals should never be looked down upon; working towards these goals is what brings happiness and success. Ultimately, you become a better version of yourself because of the monumental milestones you’ve achieved and set yourself on a path to accomplish more.
Having long-term career goals is profound because it’s what you’ll spend most of your life doing. Set goals and pursue a career that you’re proud of and will appreciate until the day you leave Earth. Nobody deserves to live from paycheck to paycheck, not knowing when their next meal will come. Instead, prioritize your career to live stress-free and provide for your family.
Recap
