After declaring this the Year of Self-Improvement, it occurred to me that I should try to define self-improvement for all of us. It wouldn’t be fair of me to just write that and then not explain my thinking behind it.
Coming up with a definition was harder than I expected. For me self-improvement means creating a better version of myself. Working on the parts of my personality that could use some tweaking. Right now it is trendy to talk about self-care, which is an important part of self-improvement.
Self-improvement is individual so it means something different to each person.
Here is a self-improvement checklist of “thought starters” to help you zero in on your goals.
A Self-Improvement Checklist
Am I asserting myself when I need to? (saying No when I should?)
Women sometimes have a tendency to be people pleasers. When someone asks us for a favor, we say sure. All the while we are silently kicking ourselves because we know we don’t have time.
Practice saying “no” the next time you are asked to volunteer, or donate, or accommodate the wishes of someone else. I promise to practice with you.
Am I practicing Empathy and understanding with others?
Day-to-day we get stressed out and frustrated. We forget to return phone calls and emails. Often we work within feet of the very people we are not communicating with effectively.
The next time a coworker or friend says something that you disagree with, make an effort to see the subject through their eyes. Think about the feelings behind what is coming out of their mouths.
The world could use a little more empathy.
Am I getting enough sleep?
Sleep is essential for all of us, ADHD or not, to function at our highest level. Studies have linked adequate sleep to both weight control and emotional well-being. http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/9-reasons-to-sleep-more#1
When it comes to ADHD, our quality of sleep can determine how focused we are during the day. In short, sleep is essential for executive functions (link) and managing emotions (link.) Lets all make an effort to get more shuteye.
Am I finding time for fun?
Fun can mean anything. Watching a favorite movie, hanging out with an old friend. Fun is anything that puts a smile on your face.
We spend so much time trying to meet everyone else’s needs. How about we take the time to do something that makes us genuinely happy.
Am I taking care of my body and mind?
Exercise has been an important part of managing my adhd for quite some time. A good workout leaves me feeling calmer and thinking more clearly. I wouldn’t trade my workouts for anything. If I don’t workout I get irritable.
My mind is a different story. I am trying to spend a few minutes each day on Headspace. Hopefully I can write a post about it. Here a link to my mindfulness post. (link)
Am I journaling and/or finding time for myself to think?
Stay tuned for my post on how to start a journal. I also have some fun writing prompts up my sleeve.
What does self-improvement mean to you?
Need More Self-Improvement Thought Starters?
