Now, I think you’re great as you are, but we do all need to grow, whether it’s at work or in our personal lives. Do you want to get promoted? Are you struggling with health issues? Do you have a history of getting fired? Whatever the case, how can you implement changes so that they will stick?
- Start with self-awareness. What do people tell you about yourself? Ask people you trust for feedback, and work to take it in. It can be very uncomfortable if you don’t like what you’re hearing, but try to think of it as an opportunity for growth.
- Then set goals. These should be as concrete as you can make them, because “eat more vegetables” is way too fuzzy and you’ll never know when you’ve succeeded. Instead, write down specific and manageable goals for yourself, ideally somewhere visible. These are little promises you make to yourself, so really work to honor them, even when you don’t want to.
- Let others in on the process. That’s not to say that you need to announce your personal growth to anyone who will listen, but if you tell your best friend that you want to walk at least 20 minutes a week, for instance, she may offer to join you. And let other people help hold you accountable.
- Anticipate resistance. We’ve all been there—it’s January so we’ve joined a gym, but today the roads are too icy and we don’t want to go. Look back at what’s derailed you in the past, and decide how you will work around those things moving forward. It might be helpful to write those ideas down, as well.
- Practice forgiveness. You’ll slip up sometimes because you’re human. And it’s completely okay to do this, as long as it doesn’t put anyone in danger. Did you accidentally interrupt someone during a staff meeting? Apologize and move on. Did you eat a bag of Fritos for dinner instead of the salad you had planned? Hey, everyone has an off day. Be as kind and gentle with yourself as you are with others.
Do you have any other tips for making lasting changes? I’d love to hear them!
