Tomorrow is Independence Day, and I have been thinking about how professionals can work independently on their growth. Here are a few suggestions based on the common themes I came across reading self-help websites recently.
Develop a growth mindset.
The first thing to instill in ourselves is a learning orientation. This will lead to a true transformation- both personal and professional. Get out of your comfort zone and break limiting self-beliefs. Overcome your fears by trying different things and intentionally pushing yourself. Read every day. Level up your skills. People who have a growth mindset believe that their abilities are not fixed in stone. They are prepared to work slowly and steadily towards developing the skills they don’t have right now. A growth mindset develops optimism and willpower.
Improve your body language.
Just a simple change in your body language can work wonders! A straighter posture boosts your confidence. A firm handshake creates a good impression and communicates trustworthiness. It is so effortless to make eye contact when talking to people. It shows that you are connecting with the speaker, and are listening attentively. Body language is a huge part of non-verbal communication. Therefore, Paying attention to your gait and posture will enrich your personality.
Invest some time in self-care
Given how workload and stress have increased in our professional lives, it is crucial that we take out time for ourselves. Feeling rejuvenated is important to continue working on your dreams. Self-care helps you perform at your best. It looks different for different people. For some, it could be singing while you are in the shower, and for some, it could be meditating after waking up. Do not ignore self-care as it helps with building self-esteem.
Be balanced.
The secret to a good life is to find a balance in whatever you do. Be assertive and strong in your words, but not rude. Show kindness to everyone, but don’t be a pushover. Be bold in your thoughts and actions, but don’t bully someone. Be proud of your accomplishments but do not confuse it with arrogance. Be humble but do not shy away from putting your best foot forward! Understanding these nuances is key to creating balance in your life.
Connect with the right kind of people.
The kind of people you surround yourself with can make or break your mindset. When you are setting out on this path of self-development, it is important that you surround yourself with people who are also determined to make something of themselves. Avoid pessimistic people, and keep negative influences at bay. Instead, consciously get in touch with like-minded people and network with experts in your industry. Develop friendships and find mentors so that you are on track even in your lows.
These are a few ways you could commit to your personal growth. A small to-do list like this could help you stay focussed on your professional and personal development.
What do you practice for self-development? Let me know in the comments below.
Wishing all readers a very Happy Independence Day in advance!