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10 Self-Improvement Challenges for Healthier Habits

Self-improvement is a practice that takes a lifetime to master. In fact, as we grow older we should always be seeking personal growth as we continue our journeys of learning and development.

But the truth is, that comes with challenges. And, while some people shy away from challenges or things that make them uncomfortable, it’s important to switch out that mindset and push yourself out of your comfort zone (where real self-improvement starts to happen).

So, no matter if you’re making small or big changes in order to grow, there’s no doubt these adjustments can and will make a difference in your life over time. So with that in mind, let’s strive for a bigger and better version of ourselves this year!

Check out these 10 ways to challenge yourself for self-improvement.

1.   Start writing or journaling to record your progress

Journaling is a fantastic way to track your habits of behaviour and can help you identify where you need to improve. Not only that, once you have identified your areas of growth by keeping a journal and putting pen to paper you can then track your progress and change over time.

2.   Create SMART goals

Goal-setting is a crucial part of self-improvement as it gives you something to work towards on your self-improvement journey. A good framework to use is the SMART theory for goal setting, which outlines how goals must be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-related. In other words, there’s no point setting yourself huge (and unachievable) goals – start off small and build your way up, you’re likely to see more success that way.

3.   Motivate yourself by making plans

Another key element of self-growth is motivation. And how can you stay motivated? Make plans! (And stick to them). Whether that’s locking in a morning run with a buddy or signing yourself up for a short course or night-time class, by making plans you make yourself accountable.

4.   Don’t be afraid of feedback

Feedback can come from many sources, whether it’s from your family, friends or even your colleagues at work. It’s important to not shy away from constructive feedback as it’s an opportune way to nut out areas of yourself that might need improvement as well as a way to track your progress.

5.   Address your failures and do things differently next time

It’s time to view failure as a learning opportunity, not something to be afraid of. The fact is, with failure comes learning which ultimately leads to self-growth. So by doing things differently after you make a mistake or fail, you are training yourself to make changes and find the best way for you to do what you need to to improve.

6.   Stock up on books

Whether you fill up your bookshelf or simply have a stack of books by your bed, by growing your home library you allow yourself to constantly learn and make new findings. Another way to read a diverse range of books is to join up with your local library, participate in a local book exchange or simply swap books with your friends!

7.   Listen to what others are passionate about

There’s no doubt that the people around you have their own sets of passions, so get your ears to work! By listening to others you will learn from their knowledge and expertise, and you may even pick up more interests yourself.

8.   Make more time for yourself

‘Me time’ is fundamental for self-improvement, and it comes in many different forms. You may prefer to do some solo exercise, meditate, try a new recipe or even get your nails or hair done. Whatever is it, ensure you put enough ‘me time’ aside to clear your mind and focus on what’s important… you.

9.   Try new hobbies

Self-growth can come when you try new things, so a brand new hobby may be exactly what the doctor ordered. This could include trying out a new language, a musical instrument, painting or joining a sports team. Give a few hobbies a try and find the one that suits you.

10.   Set new healthy habits

Creating healthy habits is a brilliant way to ensure that your efforts towards self-improvement stick. It’s important to identify which habits you currently have in life are good ones, and which may not be (these are the ones that need to be changed up). This could include, getting more sleep, having a consistent exercise routine, eating healthier, finding a better work-life balance, more effective stress management… the list goes on. While it may take a little time to make these behaviours habits straight off the bat, stick at it because it’ll all be worth it in the long run.

References:

Headspace: https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/for-young-people/start-a-journal/
Health Direct: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/goal-setting
Health Direct: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/creating-healthy-habits

Live Life Get Active is building a fitter, healthier and happier Australia and we want people to have fun along the way. With the help of Local Government and Corporate Australia we provide FREE health, fitness and nutritional education both online and in the parks, suburbs and cities of Australia.