Alfred Adler, the prominent psychologist, stated that everyone has an inherent desire to compensate for one’s inferiority and weakness. Common wisdom has entrenched the tenet that human’s are imperfect. We acknowledge that humans are fallible yet still recognize the importance of making amends, and changing for the better.
Inevitably we faced turmoil that often leaves us with self-doubts and frustrations. How many of us did not experienced financial troubles, or the sense of helplessness and inability to cope with the current dilemmas such as unemployment, obesity, drug-dependence and more?
The idea of self improvement generates an optimistic view that we can rise through the ashes and emerge victorious. Self improvement is defined by the Merriam Webster Dictionary as an attempt to modify one’s current condition for the better. If you’re feed up being labeled as a coward, loser and an utter failure then let me take you to the generalized and simple ways to get your life back on track and reach your optimum potential.
- Set generalized goals-Attaining self-improvement also requires a systematic approach. First, determine what your primary goals are. Put the goals that you consider essential at the top of your list. For instance you should placed shedding some pounds before seeking employment, if you regard the former as more important compared to the latter. Rank your goals according to their degree of importance. This initial phase determines the succeeding stages as well as actions that need to be undertaken.
- Generalized goals should be broken down- Simply stating that you want to lose weight is too broad and unspecific. After setting your goals, you need to break it down into smaller tasks. For instance, shed two pounds every week by limiting carbohydrate intake. In this manner you have a more constricted and specific objectives, and it would be easy to assess if you are failing or succeeding.
- Dispel pessimistic views-Needless to say cognitions influenced our behaviors and emotions. Albert Ellis, the proponent of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), has stressed our vulnerability to irrational beliefs. For instance the belief that we can’t succeed in anything, often results in sand-bagging and self-sabotaging behaviors. Thus, there is a need to eliminate or unlearn these irrational beliefs and replaced it with an optimistic view that we are capable of accomplishing our goals.
- Act-The final step is to take the specific objectives into action. Now that you are equipped with a positive view that you are capable of self-improvement, then you can safely take the leap.